Western Weekender February 2

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INSIDE Where you can watch Monday’s Super Bowl Page 57

GIVE US A LIFT Ongoing upgrades to the lifts at Penrith Station are forcing the elderly and parents to tackle those mammoth new stairs. So what’s taking so long? See page 5 Capt Caption pttio p io n

Suburb rocked after man is shot in the neck following wild brawl

CRANEBROOK SHOOTING P EMILY NEWTON

olice have launched an investigation after a man was shot in Cranebrook on Monday night. The shooting followed reports of a brawl on Pendock Road and Progress Way. Full story on » p.8

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Parking woes to worsen More spots to go as pressure mounts on all levels of government to solve crisis EMILY NEWTON

he parking battle in Penrith continues and Councillor Marcus Cornish warns it’s about to get a whole lot harder for locals to find a spot.

As the city develops, some public car parks are set to disappear in the future, including the eventual development of the Belmore Street car park near the tax office and the Woodriff Gardens site near the tennis courts, that will be used during the Jane Street and Mulgoa Road infrastructure upgrade.

“You’re going to lose approximately 80 spaces just at the tax building,” Cr Cornish said.

“The one beside the tennis courts is about to go temporarily once work starts on the Jane Street extension.

“Once that goes, they’ve got to look for other temporary spots.”

Council said it is continuing to try and find the best solution to parking needs.

“Parking management is a complex issue and Council is working to create smarter parking options, to meet the needs of current and future residents, shoppers, businesses and commuters,” a Council spokesperson said.

While no closure date for the car park

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Councillor Marcus Cornish warns an 80-spot car park on Belmore Street will eventually be closed. Photo: Melinda Jane “Once a timeframe for any road upgrades are established, the community will be informed.”

Cr Cornish has suggested areas that could be better utilised for commuters might include the land near the Lemongrove Bridge or the unused site behind the old ambulance station.

He praised the hard work of Council staff trying to find beneficial parking solutions

for the community and said the State Government need to help rather than continue to cause parking woes.

“Replacement parking also needs to be restricted otherwise it’s going to be used by commuters,” he said.

“The State Government is going to have to step up to the plate and supply more parking if they want commuters to use rail.”

ANG A NG N G451 4 0 45

at Belmore Street has been determined yet, Council is currently in “discussions” with Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) surrounding the Woodriff Gardens car park.

“Council is aware of the demand on parking in the City Centre and is committed to working with the RMS to minimise the impact during any future road upgrade works,” the spokesperson said.

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Troy Dodds troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au

e probably won’t mutter those words by choice but if Transport Minister Andrew Constance doesn’t jump ship soon, Premier Gladys Berejiklian will need to ensure he walks the plank.

Sorry Minister, the game is up.

Andrew Constance has been caught playing with the truth far too many times. If Ms Berejiklian doesn’t sack him, it is a black mark on her government and indeed her leadership.

The final straw was confirmation this week that the comical and controversial ‘Ferry McFerryface’ name for a ferry on Sydney Harbour wasn’t chosen by the public at all, despite the Minister’s claims late last year.

Mr Constance tweeted on November 14: “It is not everyone’s cup of tea, but the people voted for it so we listened.”

But we now know that wasn’t true.

A Channel Nine investigation found that not only did Ferry McFerryface not qualify under the government’s own criteria for the naming competition, but the public voted overwhelmingly for Clean Up Australia founder Ian Kiernan to be recognised on the ferry.

In fact, just 182 people voted for Ferry McFerryface.

What makes the story even more troubling is that Mr Constance was warned by his own bureaucrats that he needed to mitigate the risk of satirical naming campaigns.

But listening simply isn’t in the Andrew Constance playbook.

After all, on December 3 the Sydney Morning Herald reported that delays to Sydney’s trains were likely to be “cumulative and irrecoverable” during peak

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hours following incidents as a result of the new timetable introduced in November.

But when that warning came to fruition last month and Sydney’s train network descended into chaos, Mr Constance acted as though this was a new revelation.

He even ordered Sydney Trains boss Howard Collins to put together a report outlining how the network can better recover from such incidents.

Sorry, but shouldn’t that be something you do before introducing a new timetable, especially given the dire warnings?

The Minister was told there would be huge problems, and he introduced the timetable anyway – such is his arrogance.

And talking of that timetable, remember late last year when Mr Constance tried to sell that commuters were getting faster trips from Penrith and the Blue Mountains into the city?

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A comparison of the old and new timetables proves that nobody is getting to Central “quicker” under the new model.

Playing with the truth yet again.

Mr Constance also oversaw the removal of Redfern as a stop on the Blue Mountains Line. That got him off side with thousands of commuters as well as Sydney University.

When the complaints came in thick and fast, he didn’t want to listen. He’s right, you’re wrong.

And then of course there’s the train strike and his poor handling of the whole thing – and there could be more to come in that space, too.

This will be denied but local MPs and other Ministers have even been forced to phone journalists to apologise for Mr Constance’s behaviour or arrogance; they know he is a problem.

The bottom line is that I have no idea how Gladys Berejiklian can possibly continue to ask us to trust Andrew Constance.

The truth has been bent. Advice has been ignored. There is simply no way the public can have confidence in Andrew Constance when it comes to running our transport network.

His tenure can simply not continue.

It is indeed a strange twist of fate that in the end, the naming of a ferry could be the final nail in Andrew Constance’s coffin, particularly after the train debacle he’s overseen to start the year.

But it is surely the last straw for a Premier who knows how important this portfolio is and knows how important having the trust and faith of the electorate is just 12 months out from the next State Election.

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“Andrew Constance has been caught playing with the truth far too many times”

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

Editor’s Desk

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Advertising: sales@westernweekender.com.au Editorial: news@westernweekender.com.au Distribution/delivery queries: distribution@westernweekender.com.au Published by: Western Sydney Publishing Group Editor: Troy Dodds | troy.dodds@westernweekender.com.au @troydodds Journalists: Nathan Taylor | @natetaylor87 Emily Newton | @emmerleener Lauren Suttie | @laurensuttie2 Alena Higgins | @alenazhiggins Photographers: Melinda Jane If you have a story suggestion or news tip, email news@westernweekender.com.au Sales Director: Chris Pennisi | chris.pennisi@westernweekender.com.au Sales Executives: Ali Elali, Andrew Harris, Linda Miller, Daniel Vella, Sergio Carrasco, Chantelle Lang, Tracey Machut To receive a copy of our media kit and advertising prices, email sales@westernweekender.com.au Production Manager: Irene Adams | irene.adams@westernweekender.com.au Production: Maddy Searle, Ian Beard

Sales Coordinator: Sarah Coates

Upgrade won’t be finished for another two months and commuters aren’t happy EMILY NEWTON

espite an official opening taking place last year boasting a more accessible facility, some commuters are struggling while a lift is replaced at Penrith Station.

After weeks of breakdowns before Christmas, the lift on Penrith Station’s north side is out of action and being replaced, creating havoc for commuters with prams and mobility issues.

“The lift on the northern side of the station has been out of action now for almost three months,” said Labor Candidate for Penrith, Councillor Karen McKeown.

“I really don’t believe that’s good enough. I’ve seen people this morning who were physically unable to get up or get down the stairs.”

The upgrade to Penrith Station has further restricted access for anyone with mobility issues after removing direct ground access to Platform 3, forcing commuters to go up a significant flight of stairs and back down again.

“It’s just not good enough, for an upgrade that must be multi-millions of dollars, to not even consider putting escalators in place when that was what was recom-

D

mended by Penrith Council,” Cr McKeown said.

“You have to just have a look at Mt Druitt and Blacktown stations, they both have escalators and they’re not out in the middle of any road.”

Local mum Theresa Ball, who lives in Thornton, first found out about the upgrades after having to walk around the station to access the Penrith CBD on a hot day, adding at least 20 minutes to her journey.

“I’ve been avoiding it just because it’s a hassle,” she said.

“We actually had to go the long way around once before, alongside the Mulgoa Road traffic, and you just can’t do that with a pram.”

Cr McKeown slammed the State Government for ignoring recommendations presented to them.

“When you’re designing these things, why don’t you consult? Consult with the people using these things, consult with the Council,” she said.

“We were told what the design was. We made a whole raft of recommendations.

“We had issues with the taxi rank, we had issues with the parking which Council had to come up with solutions for... and this is just another example of how a bit of

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

New station’s lift troubles

Councillor Karen McKeown is furious that more wasn’t done to improve accessibility at Penrith Station, with the northern lift set to be closed until March 31 consultation and a little bit of forethought could have had a better outcome.”

When asked why the upgrade was not completed before the station was officially opened and what assistance was in place to ensure commuters from the northern side were not inconvenienced, Sydney Trains initially told the Weekender a ramp was available for customers with mobility needs.

Upon further clarification, they confirmed no ramp exists.

“During construction, we are advising customers with mobility needs to access the station from the bus interchange area at the southern end of the station,” a spokesperson said.

The lift replacement is not expected to be finished until at least the end of next month.

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

Arrest has fatal outcome Police open fire to kill Penrith man who stabbed senior officer on Australia Day EMILY NEWTON

3-year-old Nick Newman, the wanted sex offender who was shot dead by police after he twice stabbed a detective, was suffering serious and long term mental health issues.

On Australia Day, Detective Sergeant John Breda and two other officers had tracked the Penrith local to the crowded Maroubra Junction Hotel where their arrest quickly turned deadly.

Newman pulled out a hunting knife and plunged it into Det Sgt Breda’s chest and stomach, and held the knife to his own throat before other officers shot Newman dead.

The day before the stabbing, NSW Police issued a public appeal for information on Newman’s whereabouts after he failed to appear in Penrith Local Court.

“The man has been known to frequent the Redfern, Sydney CBD, and Nepean areas,” a police statement said.

Newman was wanted on eight charges of child sexual assault, accused of abusing a girl believed to be known to him for three years from when she was 11-years-old.

Det Sgt Breda has made impressive progress in the week following the stabbing.

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Nick Newman was shot and killed by police on Australia Day NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said Det Sgt Breda’s recovery from the stabbing was a “miracle”.

“It doesn’t matter if rehab takes a week or six months. The fact that his condition has improved every day and he is now into rehab, on day four, it’s indicative of the

courage John has shown both mentally and physically,” he said earlier this week.

Newman’s Facebook profile, held under a pseudonym, paints a gripping portrait of a man obsessed with weapons and heavily involved in online apocalypse survival groups.

Last year, Newman and two other survivalists started Strategic Threat Solutions, a business that sold military-style gear. A statement on their Facebook page confirmed that Newman was stood down before the police incident escalated last week.

“STS has ceased trading for the time being,” the statement said.

“Prior to the incident the team was made aware and contacted by Police about that member and the investigation, STS stood that team member down pending the police investigation and assisted police with their inquiries.”

Newman’s mother, Alicia Newman, told 7 News she hopes Det Sgt Breda recovers swiftly, saying her son had battled mental illness for 20 years.

“Since he was 13-years-old I struggled with him,” she said.

“I miss him, I miss him a lot. I’m so sorry, John. I’m so sorry.”

A critical investigation into the incident has been launched, subject to an independent review.

“We will continue to review and make sure our police have the best resources they have,” Commissioner Fuller said.

“These officers went out on a public holiday to arrest a dangerous individual and take him off the street.”

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Trains back on track Penrith Station was like a ghost town on Monday despite strike cancellation EMILY NEWTON

espite running to an almost regular timetable, local train stations were eerily quiet on Monday morning.

While the planned strike action had been postponed, many local commuters had already organised flexible work options with employers or had taken annual leave for an extra long weekend.

The station was so quiet that commuter parking was plentiful, with spots still widely available at 9am.

One commuter travelling from Woodford to Penrith said the trip was a “pleasant” journey.

“It was really quiet, I used to commute from Woodford to the city about a year and a half ago, but today was really very quiet,” she said.

By Tuesday, numbers had picked up again as the network saw the return of school students and more locals back at work following the long weekend.

Last Thursday afternoon, the Fair Work Commission ordered rail workers to cancel their 24-hour strike on Monday and abandon their indefinite ban on overtime.

It was a huge relief for Transport Minister Andrew Constance and Premier Gladys

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Penrith Station at 8.30am on Monday morning. Photo: Melinda Jane Berejiklian with the State Government taking legal action after the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) pushed ahead with its industrial action plans.

Despite the pressure he’s faced since introducing a controversial new timetable in November, Mr Constance was given the Premier’s full endorsement last week.

“I think NSW is lucky to have Andrew Constance as a Transport Minister,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The Minister is outstanding in his role, and I think the Fair Work’s ruling today has vindicated the Government’s position.”

RTBU NSW Secretary, Alex Claassens, said the union will adhere to Fair Work Commission rulings, and hopes a resolution on fair work conditions will be reached quickly.

“Commuters and workers deserve a quick resolution to this. The Transport Minister can deliver that simply by coming to the table with a reasonable offer,” Mr Claassens said.

“We just want to get back to doing what we do best – keeping our trains moving – but we can’t sit back and let our transport services and wages and conditions continue to be attacked.”

Local Councillor Marcus Cornish is fed up with what he sees as nonsense, blaming both the RTBU and the Transport Minister for the continuing dramas.

“I’m really angry about it, they’re just playing politics now,” he said.

“It’s affecting the people of Penrith.”

Topping off a disastrous few weeks for the Transport Minister, it was revealed this week that the widely criticised Ferry McFerryface was not actually the winner of a Sydney ferry naming and instead was hand picked by the Minister himself.

In Penrith on Wednesday, Ms Berejiklian continued to back Mr Constance.

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

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Motorbike is key piece of Cranebrook shooting puzzle EMILY NEWTON

olice are appealing for information following a brawl in Cranebrook that landed one man in hospital with a gunshot wound to his neck.

On Monday, January 29 at around 8pm, police were called to the intersection of Pendock Road and Progress Way following reports that a group of men were fighting.

“Upon arrival, officers located a 38-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his neck,” a police statement said.

“He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to Westmead Hospital.”

Officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“Initial inquiries suggest a black and white KTM motorbike was seen leaving the scene,” the police statement said.

Locals took to the Weekender’s Face-

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DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS The following Development Applications have been received by Council: s Penrith City Council

Read the fine print before joining a gym Flocks of New Year’s fitness fiends have prompted a reminder from NSW Fair Trading to know your consumer rights and always read the fine print before joining a gym.

Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said Fair Trading had received

DEVELOPMENT CONSENT/S DETERMINED

St Marys Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of

Planning & Assessment Act, the schedule below lists applications recently determined by Penrith

Land remediation works

City Council.

Contact: Clare Aslanis on 4732 8195

Details of these determinations are available for

Closing Date: 16 February 2018.

public inspection free of charge during Council’s DA18/0046

171 Adelaide Street, St Marys

4 x town houses with strata subdivision s Morson Group Pty Ltd

DA17/0184

Lot 16 Sec 22 DP 2296 (No. 24) Barber Avenue, Penrith

normal business hours at the Civic Centre,

Demolition of existing structures and construction of 5-storey residential flat building containing 15 apartments and basement car parking

601 High Street, Penrith.

of 7 x 2-storey town houses and associated car

Approved Development Applications

parking, landscaping and drainage works

s Urban Apartments Pty Limited

Demolition of existing structures and construction

DA17/0270

Lot 124 DP 204475 (No. 4) Thompson Avenue,

3–15 North Street, Penrith

s Mina Bolic

about 550 complaints a year for the past three years about gym memberships.

“It’s important to know your consumer rights but at the same time don’t forget you’re signing a legally binding agreement, which means contractual obligations for you, and the gym,” he said.

s N F Billyard

Pursuant to Section 101 of the Environmental DA18/0038

book page to express their shock at the incident and check their friends were safe.

“What’s this world coming to,” one woman wrote.

“I heard this! I was standing outside chatting with a few others and one of them actually asked if they sounded like gunshots,” another said.

The night before many children were set to begin their first day back at school, various streets in Cranebrook were full of police vehicles as officers tried to piece together what happened and track down the motorcyclist.

Investigations surrounding the shooting are ongoing.

Police are urging anyone who may have seen the bike in the area to contact police through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

This story broke first on the Western Weekender website. For breaking news and in depth stories, visit us online at www.westernweekender.com.au.

Viewing of Development Applications The above development application/s may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracker via penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/

DA16/1186.02

DATracker. Alternatively, the applications can be

Contact: Pukar Pradhan on 4732 7726

Lot 210 DP 1205092 (No. 26) Lord Sheffield

viewed during Council’s normal business hours at the

Closing Date: 16 February 2018.

Circuit, Penrith

Civic Centre, 601 High Street, Penrith. Officers of

s De-Construct and Recycle

DA18/0045

Pty Ltd c/- KDC Pty Ltd

Modifications to approved residential flat building

Council’s Development Services Department will be able to assist with your enquiries.

s Chahar Pty Ltd

DA17/0315

Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts

40 Charles Street, St Marys

Lot 3 DP 39452 (No. 46) Anthony Crescent,

Demolition of existing structures and site

Kingswood

remediation

Demolition of existing structures and construction

gifts must be disclosed by anyone lodging a planning

Contact: Kathryn Sprang on 4732 7834

of 2-storey boarding house containing 8 boarding

application to Council. Call 4732 7649 or visit

Closing Date: 5 March 2018.

rooms

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

Development Applications are displayed at the Penrith Civic Centre. By law, reportable political donations or

visitpenrith.com.au

8

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NEWS CONTACT US ADMINISTRATION Penrith Office Civic Centre, 601 High Street.

Opening Hours: 8.30am–4pm. Mon–Fri. St Marys Office – Remains Closed Queen Street Centre, 207–209 Queen Street.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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COUNCIL BRIEFS ● Beat the heat this summer with Council’s simple tips, things

Design Services at Soper Place

to do and places to visit!

Reference 17/18-17

Switchboard Open: 8.30am–5pm. Mon–Fri.

As part of Council’s ‘Cooling the City’ strategy, we’ve

P: 4732 7777

reduce your energy costs during the hotter months.

Penrith City Council is seeking an appropriately qualified and experienced multi-disciplinary consultancy team to develop concepts for a multi-deck car park and a commercial office building (Stage 1).

F: 4732 7958

compiled a list of things you can do to help stay cool and to

Extreme heat can be dangerous for all of us, and especially

Write to: PO Box 60, Penrith NSW 2751.

for those most vulnerable. It’s important to stay cool and

E: council@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

checking on those around us when the temperature soars.

Splash Pad Installation at Ripples

Find out more on Council’s website penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/

Reference 17/18-18

BeattheHeat

Penrith City Council is seeking Tenders from suitably experienced contractors, for the provision of material and services required for decommissioning and dismantling of the existing toddler’s pool followed by the detailed design preparation and installation of a splash pad at Ripples Leisure Centre, St Marys.

SERVICES Waste Hotline: Freecall 1800 734 735 Illegal Dumping: Contact the EPA hotline on 131 555 and ask for the RID Squad (Regional Illegal Dumping Squad).

Graffiti Hotline: Freecall 1800 022 182

● On Sunday, 4 February, Penrith welcomes the Queen’s Baton Relay to Penrith.

Penrith is just one of four Sydney locations on the Baton’s journey to the Gold Coast for the Commonwealth Games in April.

Pre-Tender Briefing at 10.30am Monday, 12 February 2018.

The Baton will leave Tench Reserve from 10am making its way

The Northern Road Intersections Upgrade

along Tench Avenue, Jamison and York Roads to Jamison

Reference 17/18-19

MEETING DATES

Park at 11am where it will be met by the Mayor and a community

Council Meetings

sports celebration. Be sure to join us at Jamison Park.

12 February 2018 – 7pm (Policy Review Committee)

There will be minor disruptions and delays as the Baton

26 February 2018 – 7.30pm (Ordinary Meeting)

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au visitpenrith.com.au

Pre-Tender Briefing at 10.30am Monday, 12 February 2018.

makes its way through our City particularly as the convoy crosses through major intersections.

Pre-Tender Briefing at 11am Tuesday, 13 February 2018 followed by a site meeting at 12.30pm.

To find out more go to penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/QBR ● Want to learn how to bring biodiversity to your own backyard?

Then register for the free Native Garden Workshop at Floribunda Community Centre, Glenmore Park between 10am–1pm on Sunday, 18 March.

The workshop will show how by planting a variety of native flora in your garden you can provide the perfect habitat, one that offers food and shelter for a variety of beneficial insects, birds and other small animals.

Bookings are essential as places are limited.

For more information call 4732 8055 or email thomas.covell@penrith.city

Penrith City Council is seeking Tenders from suitably experienced contractors, for the construction of The Northern Road Intersections upgrade at Derby Street and Great Western Highway, Kingswood.

FOR ALL THE ABOVE TENDERS: Visit penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/Our-Council/Tenders/ to register and download tender documents free of charge. Alternatively a hard copy is available for a non-refundable fee of $75 (inc GST) by arrangement.

For enquiries please contact Allyce Langton on 4732 7657 or Procurement@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au All submissions should be lodged on the forms provided in accordance with the lodgement instructions contained in the documents no later than 11am Wednesday, 28 February 2018 (‘the Closing Date’).Tenders received after this date will not be considered.

facebook.com/penrith.city.council

instagram.com/penrithcitycouncil

penrithcity.nsw.gov.au

twitter.com/penrithcouncil

youtube.com/penrithcitycouncil

visitpenrith.com.au WW32152

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

PAGE TEN my Penrith

JOKE of the WEEK

I was just looking at my ceiling. Not sure if it’s the best ceiling in the world, but it’s definitely up there.

Send your jokes to news@westernweekender.com.au

prize cupboard

P

Razika Ali

opular film ‘Goodbye Christopher Robin’ is making the move from the cinema to Blu-ray this month!

At the end of the First World War, beloved children’s author A. A. Milne (Domhnall Gleeson) creates the magical world of Winnie-the-Pooh – which brings him immediate acclaim.

But the books’ international success comes at a cost to the author, his young son Christopher Robin (Will Tilston) and his wife Daphne (Margot Robbie), in this beautifully filmed, poignant story about fame and family that also stars Kelly Macdonald.

The new Blu-ray release is a must for any collector or movie lover. It incorporates a range of special features including promotional featurettes, commentary by Simon Curtis and Frank Cottrell-Boyce, photo galleries and so much more.

While reviews from critics and viewers alike were mixed, there’s no doubt this is a great family movie night choice with its PG rating making it suitable for all ages.

Get your copy of ‘Goodbye Christopher Robin’ from all good retailers from February 21.

The Weekender has 10 copies of ‘Goodbye Christopher Robin’ to give away. For your chance to win one, email competitions@ westernweekender.com.au with ‘Robin’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to include your name and contact details. Entries close Thursday, February 8. Authorised under NSW Permit No LTPM/17/01416. Terms and conditions at www.westernweekender.com.au.

Penrith FAVOURITE RESTAURANT IN PENRITH? Burger Head FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A COFFEE? Mrs Fields FAVOURITE PLACE TO HAVE A DRINK? The Red Cow FIRST PLACE YOU’D TAKE A VISITOR TO PENRITH? Penrith Ice Palace or Aqua Golf WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT PENRITH? The sense of community WHAT IS PENRITH’S BEST KEPT SECRET? The cafes are underrated

TAKE A NUMBER

After a break of two years, local charity OZWAC is bringing back its annual black tie ball with a date of Saturday, May 12 confirmed. The event will be held at Panthers with tickets on sale next month.

We were sad to hear this week that Nepean District Tennis Association CEO Chris Woodland has moved on after 11 years. Chris was always very passionate about tennis in Penrith.

Dose of Dorin

27

The Christmas retailers’ naughty list has been revealed in the latest NSW Fair Trading Complaints Register. Kogan, Samsung Electronics and online ticket reseller Viagogo claimed the top spots with 27 complaints each, followed by The Good Guys with 18, Apple and Harvey Norman with 16 each, and online gadget store Android Enjoyed receiving 15 complaints. In December, a total of 18 businesses featured in the register, receiving 277 complaints between them.

Overall in 2017, the register recorded more than 4500 complaints against some 80 traders.

10

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

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RMS says major work to upgrade The Northern Road is progressing well EMILY NEWTON

enrith is experiencing an unprecedented time of development, with road upgrades occurring throughout the region.

While some days the roadwork speed zones might be a headache, the work is essential to support the evolving needs of the region, particularly around The Northern Road.

With a significant amount of The Northern Road upgrade currently underway, Roads and Maritime Services says development is going well.

“The Northern Road upgrade between Glenmore Parkway at Glenmore Park and Jamison Road at South Penrith is progressing well,” a spokesperson said.

“Temporary traffic barriers have been installed on The Northern Road and M4 Motorway to isolate the work area from traffic. Vegetation clearing has been completed and major earthwork has started on The Northern Road.

“Between Bringelly Road and Jamison Road at South Penrith, traffic has been moved to a temporary road to relocate utilities and complete drainage and earth moving work. Piling for the new bridge across the M4 Motorway has been

P

Road users are reminded to stick to the roadwork speed limit as work progresses along The Northern Road. Photo: Melinda Jane

completed and work on the piers and columns is progressing.”

To keep the community up to date with the project as it progresses, information sessions are being held on Wednesday, February 7 between 10am and 2pm and Thursday, February 15 between 4pm and 7pm at Southlands Shopping Centre.

Part of the 10 year, $3.6 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan, the Glenmore Parkway to Jamison Road section of the upgrade is expected to be complete in 2020.

Member for Penrith Stuart Ayres said the upgrades will ensure the infrastructure continues to support a growing Penrith.

“As Penrith grows our local infrastructure must keep up. The Northern Road upgrade is a massive investment in the future of our community,” he said.

“Labor ignored the congestion build up on the Northern Road off ramps. This Liberal Government is fixing it and future proofing our city at the same time.”

Sections of the M4 Motorway will continue to see the speed limit reduced to 80km/h, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for road user safety until construction is complete.

For the latest traffic updates call 132 701, visit livetraffic.com or download the Live Traffic NSW App.

WW32117

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Road to a smoother ride

13

Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

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Police Snapshot COMPILED BY EMILY NEWTON

Cambridge Park: Big clean-up bill after fire damages house

A kitchen fire has caused $100,000 worth of damage at a house on Lincoln Drive, Cambridge Park.

At 8.30am on Monday, January 29, emergency services were called to attend the house fire.

On arrival, the Fire Brigade could see a substantial amount of smoke coming from the location and forced entry through the main door of the property.

It is believed that the fire had been burning for some time and there was significant fire damage to the kitchen and laundry.

The main living area, bedroom and garage of the property also suffered significant smoke damage.

By 9.40am the fire had been extinguished and a close inspection established that the fire had started in the kitchen. Thankfully no persons were home at the time of the fire.

Cambridge Park: Vehicles damaged on local streets

Police are appealing for information after numerous vehicles were damaged on Cam Street, Barry Street and Cambridge Streets, Cambridge Park.

Between 8pm on Saturday, January 27 and 2am on Sunday, January 28 it is alleged that multiple vehicles have been damaged with various coloured spray paints. They range from tags to offensive words.

Jordan Springs: Dramatic end to police chase involving teens

Four teenagers have been arrested and one charged after a police pursuit through Jordan Springs on Thursday, January 25.

At about 10pm on Thursday, police were conducting random breath tests on Doonside Road, Doonside.

The driver of a white Nissan Altiva did not stop when directed and a police pursuit was initiated which was terminated shortly after when police lost sight of the vehicle. The vehicle had been reported stolen earlier in the week.

At about 11.20pm, the vehicle was again seen by police who were conducting random breath tests on Maxwell Street, South Penrith.

Once again, the vehicle failed to stop for police and a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit was terminated due to dangerous speeds of the vehicle.

At 11.40pm, police initiated a third pursuit after the vehicle was spotted on Greenway Parkway, Jordan Springs.

Road spikes were deployed before the vehicle hit a gutter near Lakeside Parkway.

Four girls fled on foot and were arrested by police a short distance away and taken to Penrith Police Station.

A 16-year-old girl was charged with ‘take and drive conveyance without consent of owner’, two counts of ‘police pursuit’ and ‘drive unlicensed’.

She was refused bail and appeared at a Children’s Court last week.

Three girls, aged 13, 15 and 17, were released from custody pending further investigations.

Kingswood: Man arrested after breaking into hotel

At 6.30am on Friday, January 26 a cleaner and an attendant were at a hotel in Kingswood.

It is alleged that a 29-year-old Cranebrook man attended the location and attempted to gain entry.

An attendant told the man the premises was closed.

The man continued to try and open the door, and it is alleged he forced the door and managed to squeeze through a gap and entered the location.

Once inside, the man has demanded money.

The attendant has activated the hold-up alarm.

The man continued to the register and pulled trays out, damaged a payout machine and an ATM machine.

Police attended the location, causing the man to run from the premises.

A pursuit was initiated and the man was apprehended on Santley Crescent.

with Daniel McKinnon Complete Legal & Conveyancing • 4704 9991 • Suite 11, 354 High Street Penrith

Hidden road rules you might not know about Most of us know our mainstream road rules back to front.

There are some other road rules in New South Wales that you might not be aware of however, and they can be a little quirky.

Here are some examples: Phones down for young drivers Did you know that you can’t use a mobile phone at all, even via Bluetooth, if you are a P-plater?

Since December 2016, a P-plater cannot use a mobile phone in any capacity in a car.

You can also be charged with a mobile phone related offence if your phone is sitting on your lap, even if you are not using it while you are in the car, or if you are flicking through emails or sending a quick text while in a fast food drive through.

The best way to protect yourself from this type of offence is to adopt a “hands off” policy if the vehicle is on and keep your hands off your phone.

Stay inside the car It is an offence to have part of your body outside of your window. This means that if you are one of those people that stick your arm out of your window while you are driving, or farewell friends and family with a wave from your car window, you could be guilty of an offence. It is also an offence

to toot your horn in farewell, as this is considered an inappropriate use of your car’s warning device.

It’s right to keep left You must keep left unless overtaking. FYI – you can also however be charged with driving dangerously slow, so remember even if you are in the left lane, it is best to stick to or close to the speed limit.

Tell others what you’re doing Roundabouts – remember you must indicate left whenever leaving a roundabout. If you do not, you are guilty of an offence and may receive a fine.

Keep it secure Make sure you always lock your car and remove the keys from the ignition.

It is an offence to be standing more than three metres from your car without removing the ignition key and locking the doors and windows.

Keep your friends on notice When it comes to passengers, make sure they remember that their conduct could lead to the driver getting a fine as well. For example, somebody reclining in the front passenger seat can be deemed to be a seatbelt offence and attract a fine for the driver.

There are a range of other quirky little road rules that might find you in a bit of strife if you come across an overzealous police officer.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

‘Best ever’ Mayor gets OAM honour EMILY NEWTON

e is considered by some as Penrith’s best ever Mayor, and now local businessman John Bateman has been recognised for his community dedication.

The Founder of Nepean Philanthropists and owner of Bateman Battersby Lawyers was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) on Australia Day. “It’s very humbling, but I also feel very privileged to be recognised,” said Mr Bateman, who guided Penrith through its involvement in the 2000 Olympic Games.

“I think without sounding trite, a recognition of volunteerism in society is essential.

“I just don’t think society could survive without people volunteering their time in various groups, we would be a much poorer society if people weren’t giving their time to assist others.”

Mr Bateman served as Penrith’s Mayor between September 1998 and September 2000, a time of significant change and evolvement for the city.

“We’re left with two great facilities, the International Regatta Centre and the Whitewater Stadium,” he said.

H

“What a great time it was for Penrith, it was a really good time for our city and that was all about people coming together.”

With parents that were actively involved in the community when he was young, an inspired Mr Bateman began volunteering with community groups that led to becoming a Board member on various Penrith icons.

He believes that Penrith and the surrounding area has a high level of volunteerism, as the community, regardless of age or background, will always look out for one another.

“When I first came to Penrith it had all the great benefits of a country town,” he said.

“Penrith has been a community where there has always been a strong community involvement and a really genuine involvement of wanting to assist your fellow members of the community.”

Of his achievements, Mr Bateman believes his passion for education and the establishment of the Bateman Battersby Law Bursary is significant as he encourages and supports local students to strive in further legal education.

“We’ve had some outstanding successes just by supporting local high school students,” he said.

John Bateman has been recognised with an OAM. Photo: Melinda Jane

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17

Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

Former Panther recognised A former Penrith Panthers rugby league player was among those recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) on Australia Day. Neville Glover played 11 first grade games for the Panthers in 1983, having joined the club from Parramatta where he played more than 100 matches.

He represented Australia and New South Wales before retiring and becoming a Senior Sergeant in the New South Wales Police Force.

In February 2017, after 29 years, he retired from the police.

He now devotes himself entirely to helping others through charities including the Men of League, Ronald McDonald House, Cystic Fibrosis Australia, Camp Quality and Make-A-Wish Australia.

“I’ve increased the time I do charity functions... if anyone rings me up and says they need a hand somewhere I try to get there and donate a few pieces of memorabilia for them,” Mr Glover told 2GB.

Humbled by OAM Neville Barnier is best known for his work with Penrith RSL EMILY NEWTON

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Roads and Maritime Services

Night work Ramp closures and changed traffic conditions on the M4 at The Northern Road, South Penrith from Friday 2 February 2018

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Neville Barnier has provided countless hours to the community through his work with Afford and Penrith RSL Club.

Photo: Melinda Jane

Honour for Albert Vietnam vet is dedicated to helping those impacted by war EMILY NEWTON

lbert Fish, a proud ex-serviceman from Erskine Park, has been honoured with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his dedication to veterans and their families.

His service includes years of work in various roles at the Returned Services League of Australia St Marys sub-Branch, the St Marys Women’s Auxiliary and the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia St Marys Outpost.

Humbled by the nomination from his peers at the sub-Branch, Mr Fish was completely surprised when he received the letter from the Governor General, believing the award should be shared with all of them.

“I’m very honoured, but feel like it’s more than I deserve,” he said.

“At St Marys we’re a very active subBranch and I am only a small part of a whole team. Everybody down there has got their ability and knowledge in life that is working towards something.

“It is another family and that’s why it’s an honour that those blokes felt that I deserved this.”

Even though he was conscripted and served during the Vietnam War, Mr Fish is happy he served as part of the first intake in 1965.

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BLZ133330

Roads and Maritime Services is building a new bridge over the M4 Motorway at the Northern Road, South Penrith as part of The Northern Road upgrade between Glenmore Parkway, Glenmore Park and Jamison Road, South Penrith.

Work includes installing temporary barriers, building temporary access roads and concrete platforms, earthwork, building retaining walls, transporting equipment, clearing vegetation, installing or changing signage and line marking.

During this work, the M4 on and off ramps at The Northern Road, South Penrith will be closed between 10pm and 8am on the following dates: • Friday 2 and Saturday 3 February 2018 the eastbound off-ramp to The Northern Road westbound on-ramp to the M4 Motorway.

• Friday 9 and Saturday 10 February 2018 the eastbound on-ramp to the M4 Motorway and westbound offramp to The Northern Road.

These closures will be carried out at night when traffic volumes are lower to minimise impact on traffic and safety of the travelling public.

Detours during The Northern Road ramp closures will be in place re-directing people to the Kent Road and Mulgoa Road M4 Motorway ramps. Please visit the Roads and Maritime website to view the detour maps.

From Saturday 10 February 2018, the shoulder of the westbound-off ramp on The Northern Road, Orchard Hills will be closed. You might notice a change to traffic queuing on the motorway and may experience delays during peak periods.

Detours and closures may affect travel times, please keep to speed limits and follow the direction of detour signs and traffic controllers.

Thank you for your patience during this important work.

enrith’s Neville Barnier was shocked and honoured to discover he was the recipient of an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) on Australia Day. With decades of hard work with the Australian Foundation for Disability (Afford), the Penrith RSL Club and the Homes for Heroes Western Region, Mr Barnier has dedicated his life to serving people with disability, ex-servicemen and the community of Penrith.

Originally from Grafton, he credits his father’s influence to push him to become involved in the community.

“My father used to take me to Progress Association meetings and got me to sign up to help out,” he recalled.

When he was conscripted to serve in the 1960s, Mr Barnier met and became engaged to his wife in Rockhampton.

“When I moved to Penrith back in 1970, I had just got married and come out of the Army and I kept moving west to find a house that I could afford,” he said.

“When we moved here there was about 35,000 people. I’ve seen Penrith go from a really small country town to what it is today.”

Coming from a commercial background,

Mr Barnier was crucial to the continued success of Penrith RSL, helping it re-brand to focus more on being a family club.

“When I was first getting involved in the club it was going through a very bad time with the new gambling tax and the smoking bans came in around the same time,” he said.

“At lot of clubs were suffering at the time, we had to bring back a commercial experience into the club.

“I’m pretty proud that we did that, because Penrith RSL was struggling, and we’ve brought it back to being profitable.”

After 34 years at Afford, Mr Barnier resigned from his position as Chairman that he held since 2014, just prior to Christmas last year.

“I decided I had to give some time to my family,” he said.

“But it’s in good hands now. It’s being run by very capable people.”

Mr Barnier said he was thrilled when he found out about his OAM. “My wife knew about it and she was being very coy about the whole thing,” he said.

“She was pretty chuffed about it all.”

The pair have recently bought themselves a caravan and are looking forward to exploring Australia and visiting family members in the future.

For more information please call our delivery partner Lendlease on 1800 870 665 or email tnr.community@lendlease.com or visit rms.nsw.gov.au/wsip WW32085

Albert Fish has been awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his dedication to the St Marys RSL sub-Branch. Photo: Melinda Jane “We didn’t know what was going to happen, no one was there before us to tell us what was going to happen,” he said.

“This year, being the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI, it’s important that we keep the story of our ancestors alive, especially because we still have men and women serving.”

After many years being subjected to the

dismissive treatment returning Vietnam veterans faced, Mr Fish is ensuring history won’t repeat and ex-servicemen know they have support.

Now 73-years-old, Mr Fish spent Australia Day last week with his loved ones, celebrating his new OAM and reflecting on his remarkable life and career.

17TH MARC MARCH

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

Changing your life for good EMILY NEWTON

W

ith some cancers prone to reoccurrence, the fight doesn’t stop after your last clinical appoint-

ment.

Maintaining a healthy body becomes a life-long goal, and cancer survivors in the Nepean and Blue Mountains are encouraged to improve their lifestyle habits through a tailored exercise and nutrition program run by Cancer Council NSW. ENRICHing Survivorship is a free group-based program where survivors will receive information on nutrition, participate in physical activities and talk about adjusting to life following cancer treatment.

Cancer survivor David Wilkinson said the program helped him to alter his lifestyle after treatment for prostate cancer.

“My wife Jan and I both did the program.

The first thing it taught us was to re-examine our diet,” he said.

“We’d always eaten good food, but after the program we cut down on the quantity of meat we were eating and increased our fruit and vegetable intake.

“I was quite fragile after my diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

“The camaraderie of the other people participating was also really helpful through my recovery.”

The ENRICHing Survivorship program is comprised of eight, two-hour face-to-face weekly sessions that exposes survivors to a range of nutrition information, involvement in physical activity and practical information and discussion about adjusting to life following cancer treatment.

Cancer Council NSW Greater Western Sydney Community Programs Coordinator, Natalia Atcha, said lifestyle programs like ENRICHing Survivorship help to support behaviour change and improve the long-term health of those affected by cancer.

“A healthy diet and physical activity have been shown to enhance the physical and psychosocial health of cancer survivors and reduce the risk of cancer and cancer recurrence,” she said.

“Previous habits can be hard to change on your own, and with the added fatigue experienced by many cancer survivors, people can easily slip back into their old ways post-treatment.”

Carers, partners or family members are welcome to attend with the survivor. To register, visit www.cancercouncil.com. au/ENRICH or phone 1300 360 541.

Participant David Wilkinson said the program helped him to alter his lifestyle after treatment for prostate cancer

dear weekender... email: news@westernweekender.com.au post: Suite 2, 42-44 Abel Street, Jamisontown 2750

It’s all about choice when it comes to food I’ve been going to Nepean Hospital for over 10 years and no complaints until now (Hospital flicks health switch, Weekender January 26). Recently my husband was there for three weeks and I found things hard to buy like ice tea (tell me what’s wrong with that) and the chilli wraps were nice, no cakes, when you are there all day you have to bring things from home. The best thing is the girls that work there, they are like family and I hope that doesn’t change. You can eat crappy food and be in pretty good shape. You can eat vegan and be seriously overweight! What you eat is important but your physique depends more on how much you eat and exercise.

When you go to hospital, whether to visit or have an appointment, it’s not for pleasure, enjoying a cappuccino and biscuit while waiting is my choice to have a bit of pleasure for my unpleasant reason being there. The cafe as is and staff are a pleasure, allowing me the choice and the wonderful friendly company I am accustomed to. Never a pleasure to visit but the cafe staff make my visits more friendly and comfortable.

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Shame about pool closure Apparently about 500 visits a week and we all have to transfer somewhere else

(Shock at pool closure, Weekender January 26). Patients who are recovering from surgery will now go to the Derby Street Hydro which is being re-opened and then after 12 weeks you have to go somewhere else. Some people have been going for 20 to 30 years and it has kept them moving and out of hospital. Shame.

ANDREA JILL TILL, VIA FACEBOOK

Government in trouble Your editorial last week hit the nail on the head (Editor’s Desk, Weekender January 26). How has the State Government possibly reached this point? They were cruising, then all of a sudden a raft of issues has them in serious trouble with the electorate. I agree a re-shuffle is needed to move on some of the dead weight, particularly Andrew Constance in Transport.

TONY FITZPATRICK, VIA EMAIL

Flashbacks are great I would like to commend the Weekender for its dedication to history, both in print but also on the Facebook page. It’s quite amazing to be taken back in time every few days. I’m not old enough to remember all of it but it’s great to see you are so dedicated to keeping memories alive.

BELINDA W, VIA EMAIL

The Western Weekender reserves the right to edit letters for the sake of accuracy and space.

For more information, see our public notices section.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Groups & Support Parent Support Penrith Every 2nd Tuesday 10am - 11.30am

Sensory Playgroup Penrith Wednesday 9.30 -11am Friday 3.30-5pm

Duplo Club North St Marys Monday 3.15-4.45pm

Lego Focus 8-12yrs Penrith Tuesday 3.30-5pm

Lego Club Kingswood Wednesday 3.30 -5pm Thursday 3.30-5pm

Emoji 13-19yrs Penrith Every 2nd Tuesday 3.30-5pm

*Suitability of groups is an individualised agreement with a person centred approach.

All groups are facilitated by experienced disability staff. They are a great opportunity to be involved in a structured social program within a safe and non-judgemental environment.

We aim to increase social development and to foster an inclusive and creative culture, to actively participate in the community.

Parents have the opportunity to receive resources and advice on strategies relating to issues that may be of concern with a carer support environment.

Through attending a regular group both parents and children are able to build a supportive network of both formal and informal supports.

TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE LUKE PRIDDIS FOUNDATION PHONE: 02 4736 2202

EMAIL: GROUPS@LUKEPRIDDISFOUNDATION.COM WW29770

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

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fter last year’s horror flu season, local kids between six months and five-years-old are eligible for free flu jabs this year.

The $3.5 million influenza vaccination program offered by the NSW Government hopes to ensure the community is better protected from another outbreak.

“Last year our community, like many in NSW, was hit hard by the flu season,” said Member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies.

“So [this] announcement means more than 400,000 children across the state are eligible to receive better protection

A

not only for them, but also for their families and the wider community.”

Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said NSW childhood vaccination rates had increased by 6.3 per cent since 2010, to 93.9 per cent in 2017.

“This free flu jab will go even further to protect our little ones from potentially deadly flu infections,” Mr Hazzard said.

Parents can access the free flu shot from their usual immunisation provider from April 2018.

For more information, visit www. health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation.

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enrith locals are being called upon to dust off their aprons, preheat their ovens and get the kettle boiling this February to help raise awareness for ovarian cancer.

With the lowest survival rate of any women’s cancer and with little improvement in treatment over the last 30 years, Ovarian Cancer Australia are urging everyone to take a stand and show their support this Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Hosting her first Afternoon Teal, Managing Director of Mooney Financial Services in St Marys, Nardia Barrett, said that it’s a perfect opportunity to take time out of busy schedules to catch up with friends, while also helping other women in need.

“Our main clientele are women in the area and we believe that so much more awareness needs to be brought to the issue because it is so undetectable, it’s a silent killer,” she said.

“Hosting an Afternoon Teal is a great way to get a group of friends together, have some cake, tea and coffee and just make an event of it while making a difference.”

With an estimated 1,580 women diagnosed with the cancer last year, Ovarian Cancer Australia, who rely on community donations, are aiming to raise

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$500,000 this year. Inviting other female business owners to come together for an afternoon filled with games and food, Ms Barrett said that hosting an event like this is a great way to give back.

“As a business owner I’m a firm believer that we need to support the community that supports us, so any way that we can give back I think is really important,” she said.

For more information on how to donate or to register for an event, visit www. afternoonteal.net.au.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

Exchange program Penrith students aged between 15 and 19 have the opportunity to travel to Penrith’s sister city Fujieda and live with a Japanese family for three weeks.

They will experience Japanese culture, learn about the Japanese way of life and share their Australia with a Japanese student in return.

In conjunction with Penrith Council, the Penrith International Friendship Committee has been successfully running this annual exchange program for 30 years and has facilitated the exchange of over 240 students from Australia and Japan.

Past students report that the exchange was a life changing experience and they have made strong friendships that continue long after the exchange.

Details: 4732 8258.

Register for Walk Locals participating in this year’s Memory Walk & Jog Western Sydney are being urged to register now to save up to 40 per cent in costs.

Memory Walk & Jog raises much-needed funds to support the work of Dementia Australia which provides invaluable support, education and resources for people living with dementia in Australia, their carers, families and friends.

This year’s walk in Penrith will take place on Sunday, March 25.

This year, participants can choose to take part in a 2km walk, 8km walk or 8km run and are asked to help reach the $300,000 fundraising target.

Visit www.memorywalk.com.au.

Cheap love is still good love Valentine’s Day plans don’t have to break the budget LAUREN SUTTIE

t’s the day where chocolate and flower sales go through the roof, and public displays of affection are seen everywhere you look.

But whether you’re a lover or hater of the occasion, there’s no denying that Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to share the love.

Dating for two-and-half years, local couple Ben Hull and Shauna Hooper said it was important to put in the effort each year to make the day a special one.

“Just like you get a day dedicated to your birthday and all that, it’s a day dedicated to us, it reminds you to take that day no matter how busy your life is,” Mr Hull said.

For those in long-term relationships, coming up with a different present each year can get difficult, not to mention expensive, but finding the perfect gift doesn’t necessarily mean spending big.

“Normally we make our gifts, and we put a $10 limit on them,” Mr Hull said.

“Last year, I made two candles that combined with a cut-out love heart and the first year I made a bookmark.”

A gift for him can be as easy as decorating his favourite beer with a special message or putting together a modern version of a mix tape with all your favour-

I

Local couple Ben Hull and Shauna Hooper Photo: Melinda Jane ite songs on a USB stick.

For the lady in your life, treating her to some hand-made coupons will be something she’ll definitely appreciate.

But if getting creative isn’t your strong point, you can always opt for a picnic in the park or better yet, take a trip to the drive-in and watch a movie laying under the stars.

we create. you celebrate.

And while there’s nothing wrong with buying a more traditional gift, Mr Hull said that putting a little extra time and getting creative will make that gift a little bit more special.

“You put a lot more thought into it rather than going out and buying something, and at least with something you’ve made you can look back on it,” he said.

Mayor’s News The weekly views of Penrith’s Mayor

Queen’s Baton Relay This Sunday, February 4, we welcome the Queen’s Baton Relay to Penrith.

The Queen’s Baton Relay is a unique 230,000km relay and Penrith is just one of four Sydney locations on the baton’s journey to the Gold Coast for the Commonwealth Games in April.

Events like this give our community the chance to experience world-class events right here in Penrith along with providing our city with national and international exposure. To be one of only four metropolitan NSW destinations speaks volumes for our city and its capacity to host these types of events.

The relay embodies the spirit of the friendly games and is all about shining a light on inspirational people around the world. It’s a great chance to celebrate the amazing people who call Penrith home as well as those who have been selected as baton bearers.

18 people will carry the baton

through Penrith, many of them locals who were selected to be a part of this exciting event and were awarded for their role in the community. The baton will leave Tench Reserve from 10am making its way along Tench Avenue, Jamison and York Roads to arrive at Jamison Park at approximately 11am.

Jamison Park, the city’s sporting hub, will play host to a variety of sporting activities to celebrate the Baton’s arrival. Families can ‘come, try and enjoy’ soccer, cricket, netball, basketball, gymnastics plus many more at Jamison Park. There will also be a BBQ

by Nepean Athletics Club.

I hope you can join me at Jamison Park to welcome the baton to Penrith and to celebrate the many sports that are played in Penrith. To find out more go to: penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/QBR.

CR JOHN THAIN Mayor of Penrith

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We love taking you behind the scenes here at the Weekender and that’s why you need to follow us on Instagram.

You’ll get some great insight into

what we’re up to, how we put the paper together plus updates on where you can grab a copy of the paper.

Search @westernweekender.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

Reaching for the Stars New language program aims to connect students with international culture EMILY NEWTON

ocal kids can connect with a culture over 9,000km away through a playgroup that is delivered almost entirely in Chinese.

Mandarin Stars, a language program for children aged from one to 12-years-old, has just opened in Penrith and Blaxland offering an effective method for teaching local kids Mandarin.

Business owner of the Penrith Mandarin Stars franchise, Michelle Wang, said the focus on cultural as well as linguistic education allows children to soak up the language in a unique environment.

“We are very excited to offer the Mandarin Stars program in the Penrith and Blue Mountains area,” she said.

“There has been a lot of demand in the area for Mandarin lessons for children and so we know that this is going to get a very warm reception from local parents and children.”

Created by experienced educators and bilingual teaching staff, the feature of Mandarin immersion techniques help to develop confidence, appreciation and familiarity while deepening a global cultural understanding.

“Parents can be assured that their chil-

L

dren will get the best exposure and training in Mandarin possible,” Ms Wang said.

“I love teaching children and to see them learn.

“The creativity, honesty and endless energy means I consistently love my job.

“I’ve been a Mandarin teacher for six years and taught all different levels of Mandarin.

“The class is for people with no Chinese background, or maybe just a little bit of Chinese background who might not speak Mandarin at home, or maybe they’re just learning now.”

For pre-schoolers, children of all nationalities participate in a structured playgroup environment with music, singing, dramatic play, art and craft and storytelling, all in Mandarin.

“We adapt the Australian way of teaching to the children,” Ms Wang said.

“We have a ‘free play’ time where they get to choose their educational toys and we interact with them and encourage Mandarin with them.”

Classes are held every Saturday afternoon at the Penrith Baptist Church on Morello Terrace in Caddens and on Saturday mornings at Blaxland Community Centre.

For more information, visit www. mandarinstars.com.au.

Local Michelle Wang uses interactive and encouraging teaching methods to enhance language retention. Photo: Melinda Jane

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ST MARYS & PENRITH LEISURE CENTRES

‘Biggest Pet Loser’ competition aims to get doggy diets in place to boost health to help owners also reach their nutritional and fitness potential.

For St Clair resident Tamara Henry, the challenge has come at a perfect time.

“My partner and I get married in two months and he is on a very strict diet, so if we get some help with Sam Wood’s program it’ll be good,” she said.

Entering their eight-month-old pug Lola, who currently weighs 8.5kgs, Ms Henry said the hardest thing will be to not give in.

“Pugs never stop eating, no matter if they’re full they’ll still look for the next treat, so the hardest thing will be trying to gauge when she’s had enough food,” she said.

While losing a few kilos can be seen to be a win for all participants, Petbarn are also giving away a $2000 voucher and $1000 to the biggest loser.

To register your pet, visit www.petbarnbiggestpetloser.com.au.

LAUREN SUTTIE

urns out that a new year’s health kick isn’t just for humans.

For the second year in a row, Petbarn Penrith is challenging pet owners to get their pets moving in a bid to help our furry friends lose weight.

With 41 per cent of dogs and 32 per cent of cats in Australia overweight, Petbarn’s ‘Biggest Pet Loser’ competition aims to raise awareness of the health risks of pet obesity and encourages local pet owners to reconsider what they’re feeding their pets.

Penrith Coreen Avenue Petbarn Store Manager, Emily Dewhurst, said that while pudgy pets appear to be cute, people should be aware that those extra kilos can cause significant health problems.

“Many pet owners love to treat their pets like family when it comes to food, for example by sharing scraps from the table with their furry friends,” she said.

“However, what we feed our pets counts and it’s important to consider the different nutritional needs of our pets and the right amounts to feed them.”

But it won’t just be pets benefiting from the 12 week challenge, with Petbarn partnering with former ‘Bachelor’ Sam Wood

T

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Search on for pudgy pets

Amanda Vlah and Tamara Henry with their dogs Bruce and Lola. Photo: Melinda Jane

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

BUSINESS H How obsessed are you about your customers? ab

J

How to be more productive and not just busy!

Phil Voysey // OneGroup Leadership

Jane Tweedy // Western Sydney Business Centre

0457 999 987 | onegroupleadership.com.au

4721 5011 | info@wsbusiness.com.au

eff Bezos, founder of Amazon, was asked: “Jeff, what does Day 2 look like?”

He replied: “Day 2 is stasis.

Followed by irrelevance. Followed by excruciating, painful decline. Followed by death. And that is why it is always Day 1.”

He went on to say that the best way to centre a business is to be obsessively customer focussed.

Why? He says because customers are always beautifully, wonderfully dissatisfied, even when they report being happy and business is great.

I became a dissatisfied customer over the holidays. I tried to book my two Dobermans into a kennel for five days.

Despite being a regular customer I was told that they would only accept 10-day bookings over the holiday period. I tried to convince them that two dogs at five days each equalled 10 days but they wouldn’t budge.

Why not? Because it had been the policy for 30 years.

That kennel has lost me as a customer.

Clearly, they prioritised profit over

customer experience. They had no interest in accommodating my needs and demonstrated a complete inability to be responsive and flexible.

Bezos says that “Day 1 requires you to experiment patiently, accept failures, plant seeds, protect saplings, and double down when you see customer delight. A customer-obsessed culture best creates the conditions where all of that can happen. A remarkable customer experience starts with heart, intuition, curiosity, play, guts, taste. You won’t find any of it in a survey.”

What can you do to become obsessive about customer focus in your business?

P

eople are back from holiday, the kids are back at school, and the real work can begin for 2018! Hopefully by now you’ve set yourself some robust goals and identified or reviewed your business mission, vision and values, and completed an updated SWOT analysis.

Once the customer orders roll in, and we’re back at our networking groups, time can disappear. A way to deal with this is to review our productivity. Whilst mentioning networking, assess groups you’re in and make sure they still achieve your desired purpose of relationship building, referrals, camaraderie, profile building, education etc.

Are you always busy? Do you wear that as a badge of honour? Don’t, unless it’s a productive busy allowing you to achieve your IMPORTANT tasks and working towards YOUR goals, and not just tending to the needs of others.

Assess work when it comes in. For a starter, turning off notifications from email, Facebook etc and checking only a few times a day can quickly improve productivity (note Messenger works

independently of Facebook notifications, so you can still get those linked to your website chat). If you reduce frequency of checking messages it is best to warn people, to manage their expectations.

Work should be allocated as follows: 1. Do it now – urgent and important 2. Diary it – important but not urgent 3. Delegate it – urgent to someone but not important to you – offload if you can!

4. Dump it – neither urgent or important – unnecessary timewasters!

Note that downtime and fun are important – they actually fall into point two or even one!

Ideally don’t double handle emails or leave them sitting in the inbox to action.

Instead move to a task list.

Tasks can be managed through your calendar, or via an app like Trello or Google Keep.

Plan ahead For the day, week, month and year.

Eat the frog! This mantra was made famous by a Brian Tracy book of the same name. Schedule your hardest task first in the day – your day can only improve!

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The Australian-owned franchise group has created the cutting edge space, designed with a large group exercise area and dedicated creche area, to cater to all local residents.

Club manager Daniel Burford, a former professional spokesman in the western suburbs region, said he was excited to see the new space open for business.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to connect with the local community,” he said.

“We are delighted to open in Glenmore Park and look forward to creating some exciting, sustainable relationships with local schools, sporting teams and businesses.”

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creche facilities as well as over 180 clubs across Australia, Plus Fitness 24/7 Glenmore Park offers great benefits and convenience for members.

And while it’s no secret that Penrith locals like to keep fit and healthy, Mr Burford said that the gym was another tool locals could utilise to help them achieve their fitness goals.

“With a health conscious, active, local population we are really keen to open our doors and showcase our services, connecting with the local community and assisting our members with their health and fitness journeys,” he said.

A functional training area and an experienced team of personal trainers and group instructors, all coupled with a professional and friendly reception team, mean that Plus Fitness 24/7 Glenmore Park is so much more than your average 24-hour gym.

If you like what you’ve read then why not give Plus Fitness in Glenmore Park a call or pop in to sign up today, and start your journey to a fitter, healthier you.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

TURNING BACK TIME

The early days (and dark secrets) of Emu Plains Jade Aliprandi discovers the remarkable history of a part of Emu Plains that holds some incredible secrets and played a major role in the early development of the local area...

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n the early 1800s Emu Plains was home to thousands of convicts over a 13-year period at what was then known as The Emu Plains Government Agricultural Establishment or The Emu Plains Prison Farm.

Starting out as an experiment, Governor Macquarie decided on establishing the prison farm based on the idea that it was to be used as a way to give employment to the servants and convicts who would then secure additional supplies of grain for the public service.

There was to be a superintendent of the establishment, the first in charge was former convict, Richard Fitzgerald.

He was apparently given a salary of 100 pounds sterling per annum, according to Department of Corrective Services documents.

A letter written by a man by the name of M.M. Jean Rene Constance Quoy explains some features of the farm from when he visited after it had just been established.

“The farm featured 25 huts where 140 men were grouped under the direction of an overseer, who was also a convict,” he wrote.

“By 1820 the area measured 2000 acres, with 800 cleared of timber and separated into large fields and 500 acres under crops.”

The farm is described as ‘agricultural richness’ playing an important economic role in the Nepean district, providing a source for the sale of goods, the employment of clearing gangs and the individual assignment of convicts to local settlers.

In 1830, the establishment was reduced and then shut down in 1832 under the guidance of Lord Bathurst who, at the time, instructed that all Government

St Paul’s Church is currently sitting on the kitchen garden and part of the prison quarters. Photo: Penrith City Library farms, except for Norfolk Island and Port Macquarie, be sold.

The Emu Plains Prison Farm was broken up into lots with only a few reserves kept by the Government.

A Broadside from 1835 describes the convict conditions at the prison establishment explaining they suffered with their living and working conditions.

Cutting through mountains to form new roads, blasting rocks, cutting trees up by the roots and burning off grass were all part of the tasks given to the convicts.

There was little chance of escape as they were all monitored by a military guard day and night as well as having to wear irons on both legs.

At night they were locked up in small wooden houses that contained about a dozen sleeping places.

The houses have been described as 7ft by 4ft in area and roughly 8ft high.

The Nepean River separated the farm

from the free settlement at Castlereagh and Regentville as well as the influences of liquor and other temptations.

The river was considered a natural barrier in encouraging the prisoners, those who weren’t chained, to remain at the farm.

It is said that the men were relatively free in their movements around the station and were only chained when they had been charged with an offence.

It was reported that on September 25, 1823, two convicts attempted to run away from the farm and cross the river.

One man, by the name of Thomas Skidmore, was unable to swim at the time and instead floated with the current for some distance before drowning. The other man, Thomas Warren, was unable to save him.

After convicts served around two years at the Emu Plains Prison Farm, they were assigned mostly to settlers to work as agricultural labourers.

Over the 13 years of the Emu Plains Prison Farm there were six superintendents and well over 20 overseers.

The farm was resurrected again in 1914 with about 107 acres for the prisoners to work on and, in 1916, it was known as a Place of Detention.

In 1949 the Emu Plains Prison Farm Place of Detention was proclaimed Her Majesty’s Training Centre, Emu Plains.

Between 1951 and 1957 the prisoners huts were rebuilt and, in 1986, it was providing accommodation for 118 inmates, from the ages of 18 to 23.

Currently sitting on the kitchen garden and part of the prison quarters of the original 1819 farm is St Paul’s Church of England (pictured).

When the land from the original farm was separated after its closure, work began on the church. Sitting on Short Street, the church was built in 1848 and was extended in 1872.

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the western weekender Âť Friday, February 2, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT PENRITHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BIGGEST AND BEST LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Living in the 70s!

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LAUREN SUTTIE

t was the music era where perms and satin pants went hand in hand, and where getting a slot on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Countdownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meant a career kick start for many of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest artists.

The 70s were also the era that produced Australian icon, John Paul Young.

Working as a sheet steel metal worker in Sydney during the early 70s, it was an opportunity in theatre that saw Young get his big break. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I suppose when I look back to before I started in my little band back when I was 17, I had no aspirations to be a singer or to be a performer and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just the way that it worked out and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very glad it did,â&#x20AC;? he laughed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I ended up getting a chance to audition for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jesus Christ Superstarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, so I spent the next two-and-a-half years in the theatre doing that. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Luckily George Young and Harry Vanda returned from England and because I had a bit of success with one of their songs, they looked me up and asked me to come in and try a few more and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how it all started rolling.â&#x20AC;?

Over the next few years, Young would give a voice to Vanda and Youngâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s songs such as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Love Is In The Airâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Yesterdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Heroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Standing In The Rainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, making him an international pop star.

Now 43 years since his first hit single â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pasadenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was released, John Paul Young is going back to the 70s to celebrate the song writing duo that gave Australia its unique soundtrack.

And heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got no issue with paying tribute to history. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m quite happy to live in the past,â&#x20AC;?

Young said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think the time for new music is gone, there really isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a lot that caters for people of ilk.â&#x20AC;?

Bringing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Vanda & Young Songbookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to the Evan Theatre at Penrith Panthers later this month, audiences will be taken through the decades of the duoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mega hits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll rediscover a part of your youth, because there is a lot of songs that we will play that you will know really well but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve forgotten about and when you hear them itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll spark you up,â&#x20AC;? Young said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have a chat with the audience and explain little bits and pieces of what I know and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good night.â&#x20AC;?

The show is expected to attract an impressive crowd.

John Paul Young and The All-Star Band will be performing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Vanda & Young Songbookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; show at the Evan Theatre on Friday, February 23. Tickets are $53.35.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.penrith.panthers.com.au or call 1300 PANTHERS.

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Deb aims to connect us with those who have passed LAUREN SUTTIE

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Psychic medium Deb Webber will be at Penrith Paceway on Monday, February 12 at 7pm. Tickets are $58. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.debwebber.com.au or phone (07) 5442 5174.

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nown for her award-winning TV show ‘Sensing Murder’ as well as her column in Woman’s Day, famous psychic medium Deb Webber is bringing her acclaimed live show to Penrith Paceway for one night only.

Showcasing her incredible accuracy and connection to the spirit world, Deb will walk through the audience giving spontaneous readings and connecting the lucky chosen people to their loved ones in spirit.

Originally from Melbourne, the single mother of two has been relaying messages from spirits since she was a young child and those attending this show will get to witness the extraordinary detail that Deb can bring from those living beyond.

Following the live show, Deb will host a Q&A session, and a Tibetan Crystal Bowl meditation to send everyone home calm, safe and with the right spirits.

VALENTINE’S DAY

MEET & MINGLE 14 February, from 7.30pm

$30 TICKET 1 x Cocktail | 1 x Glass of Sparkling Wine Canapes | Lucky Draw | Live Music Tickets from Ticketek.

Permit Number LTPS/17/20289

PANTHERS.COM.AU

1300 PANTHERS

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You’ll be lovin’ Lovina at Metropole Guesthouse

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EMILY NEWTON

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n intoxicating brew of swing and Balkan Gypsy beats is heading to Katoomba where Lolo Lovina will perform a charming and passionate show.

Lolo Lovina, meaning Red Beer, is fronted by Australian born Hungarian Romani-Gypsy singer Sarah Bedak who grew up with three native tongues and cultures creating a unique and exhilarating identity she brings to each performance.

With international acclaim, the band has performed at the Sydney Opera House, but the intimate setting of the Metropole Guesthouse will seem like the walls are dancing along with you as you’re transported through their music.

EXCLUSIVE partnerships with some of Australia’s leading print providers

Penrith City Council - Community Newsletter

PENRITH CITY COMMUNITY NEWS The official newsletter of Penrith City Council December 2016 edition

26 January

2017

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» Friday, December 16, 2016

FREE EVENT

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AUSTRALIA DAY

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Grab the kids and enjoy the he free family fun day on 26 January

Help us celebrate our diverse heritage and traditions with free fun for all the family, including Pavlova decorating, games, face painting, bubble soccer, historical and interactive displays and shows, music and performances by Shaun the Sheep and Swamp Dawkins.

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Their music reflects the cosmopolitan identity of an artist, featuring Sarah’s husband Nenad Radic as drummer and David Carr on guitar and banjo, and Nathan Gatt on double bass, as the band combines both traditional and ground breaking arrangements to create something intoxicating and unique.

Don’t miss Lolo Lovina at the Metropole Guesthouse in Katoomba on Friday, February 9 at 6.30pm. Tickets start at $20. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.fusionboutique.com.au.

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EMILY NEWTON

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iamonds are forever, just like the profound impact Dame Shirley Bassey has had on music across her phenomenal 64-year career.

Take a trip down memory lane as Brunie Riley salutes this mega star in concert, performing the most immortalised songs ever recorded.

In ‘This is My Life: Shirley Bassey Show’, Brunie brings to life the stories and music that made Dame Shirley Bassey one of the biggest selling artists of all time.

The show will feature timeless hits ‘Goldfinger’, ‘Diamonds Are Forever’,

Our Work & Clients

• Bowls NSW Magazine • Bridal Magazine • It’s all here in Penrith

• International Rowing Guide

‘Big Spender’, ‘As Long As He Needs Me’ and many more.

With worldwide performances, Brunie is bringing this stunning show to Australia to show you that she and Shirley Bassey share more than just a powerful voice, a passion for beautiful clothes and a love for diamonds!

They both have a stage presence that will captivate you as they perform with heart and soul.

The show is supported by Robert Jeffery and the Jubilee Orchestra.

See ‘This is My Life: Shirley Bassey Show’ at Penrith Panthers on Saturday, February 10 at 8pm. Tickets start at $32.35 for members. To purchase tickets, call 1300 PANTHERS.

• TAFE NSW • Road Tech Marine

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Call our sales team today on (02) 4722 2998 Alternatively, email us at: sales@creativepublishingaustralia.com.au

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TINA TURNER SIMPLY THE BEST

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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Rebecca O’Connor is ‘Simply the Best’ as Tina Turner and has announced an encore tour after overwhelming success in 2016. Rebecca is the only artist in the world to be personally endorsed by the Queen of Rock herself. This is a show you do not want to miss!

TICKETS $27.25 | 8PM

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Take a trip down memory lane as Brunie Riley salutes this mega star in concert. Brunie will perform the most immortalised songs ever recorded during Dame Shirley Bassey’s fantastic 64 year career. In this show Brunie brings life to the stories and music that made Dame Shirley Bassey one of the biggest selling artists of the 20th century.

TICKETS $32.35 | 8PM

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THE BEST

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Do you remember mirror balls, flashing lights, platform shoes and big hair? Then this is the show for you! The Best Disco in Town brings you the best of the 70s featuring music from the Jackson 5, The Bee Gees, K.C. & The Sunshine Band, Donna Summer and many more. Tickets won’t last long for this big party, so get yours now!

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

what's on AND where HEADING OUT Friday, February 2 Karaoke – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Kris McIntyre – Orient Hotel Free entry, 8pm, 4751 4488 Jazz Daiquiri – Hotel Blue Free entry, 6.30pm 4782 6922 Karaoke – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Bigfoot – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Pool – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 7pm 4773 8888 Never Ending 80s vs 90s Show – O’Donoghues $29.73, 7pm 4735 5509 Voices of Sydney Karaoke – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555 Roaring 20’s Supper Club with John and Yuki – Avalon Restaurant Booking required, 7.30pm 4782 5532

Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 The Frocks – Blacktown Sports Club Free entry, 9pm 8822 2444 The Beatles Live – Blacktown Workers From $15, 8pm 9830 0600 The Juke Joint with Queen Porter Stomp – The Carrington Hotel $25, 8.30pm 0411 954 826 Mark’N The Blues – Hotel Blue Free entry, 6.30pm 4782 6922 Karaoke – O’Donoghues Free entry, 9pm 4735 5509 Touchwood Rock – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4773 8888 Dwayne Elix and The Engineers – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 Great Art Deco Ball – Carrington Hotel $135, 7pm 4782 1111 J Boog Rooty Hill RSL 9677 4916 Saturday, February 3, 8.30pm, $50

Tapestry: The Songs of Carole King The Joan 4723 7600 Friday, February 9, 7.30pm, From $75

Free entry, 8pm 4751 4488 Karaoke – Penrith Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 2060 Lolo Lovina – The Metropole Guesthouse $21.50, 6.30pm, 4782 5544

Simply the Best, The Ultimate Tina Turner Tribute • Evan Theatre 1300 PANTHERS Saturday, February 3, 8pm, $27.25

Saturday, February 10 Royale With Cheese – Penrith RSL Free entry, 9pm 4728 5200 Dave Craney and Clare Moore – The Metropole Guesthouse From $20, 6.30pm 4782 5544 Living in the 70’s – Blacktown Sports Club Free entry, 8pm 8822 2444 Seattle Sound – Colonial Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 1384 Soundproofed, 80’s Rewind – St Marys Band Club Free entry, 8pm 9623 1211 Two Fires, Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes Show – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 9pm 4721 5764 Orchard Boat – Hotel Blue Free entry, 6.30pm 4782 6922 Gadjo Guitars – Glenella Guesthouse $55, 6.30pm 4787 8352 The Shuffle Boys – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555 Bryan Adams Tribute Show – Colyton Hotel Free entry, 9pm 9623 2266 Laurie Bennett – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Kye Brown – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 8pm 4773 8888 Chris Drummond Duo – Blacktown Workers Free entry, 8.30pm 9830 0600 This is My Life: The Shirley Bassey Show Evan Theatre 1300 PANTHERS Saturday, February 10, 8pm, $32.25

Sunday, February 4

Saturday, February 3 Blake Tailor – Penrith Panthers Free entry, 5.30 1300PANTHERS Bob Gillespie and Friends – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 Steppin’ Out – St Marys RSL Free entry, 7.30pm 9623 6555 Outlier – Penrith RSL

Jed Zarb – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4721 5764 Karekool – Blacktown Sports Club Free entry, 1pm 8822 2444 Tomkins Honky Tonk Band – Penrith RSL Free entry, 2pm 4728 5200 The Necks – Riverside Theatres $44, 4.30pm 8839 3399

Friday, February 9 Jed Zarb – Orient Hotel

Hype Band – O’Donoghues Free entry, 9pm 4735 5509 Soular Spill – Hotel Blue Free entry, 6.30pm 4782 6922 Pool – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 7pm 4773 8888 Can you walk away a winner?

Voices of Sydney Karaoke – St Marys RSL Free entry, 8pm 9623 6555 Kings of Country Rock: Eagles vs Creedence – Blue Mountains Theatre From $50, 8pm 4723 5050

Sunday, February 11 Blake Tailor – Jamison Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4721 5764 Ukulele Festival – The Carrington Hotel Free entry, 10am 4782 1111 Christie Lamb – Wallacia Hotel Free entry, 1pm 4773 8888

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Nepean Evening VIEW Club 3rd Monday of each month 4735 4982 Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce networking 4722 6969 Penrith Showground Markets Every Wednesday 8.30am Penrith Paceway • 4721 0509 Emu Craft Market Second Saturday of the month • Nepean High School

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

Lung Support Group Second Wednesday of each month • 4733 8926 W.S. Melanoma Support Group • 1st Monday of each month • 0431 142 911 Prostate Cancer Support Monthly meetings at St Stephen’s • 1300 133 878 Circle of Security Helping parents deal with kids’ behaviour • 4720 6500

Stick your neck out and buy a ticket!

Renowned for their experimental style, where the music is invented in real time, no two shows are ever the same when you see experimental jazz trio, The Necks. Playing at the Riverside Theatres in Parramatta this Sunday, audiences can expect a hypnotic and thrilling emotional journey into the unknown. Tickets start at $39 and can be purchased at www.riversideparramatta.com.au or by calling 8839 3399.

S R O I N E FOR S

S D I K R FO

Emu Plains Lions Club New members always needed • 4735 5120 Sunset Station Singers Mondays at St Marys RSL from 7.30pm • 0425 223 113 Penrith Men’s Shed New members welcome Wednesdays • 0439 646 942 Penrith Rotary Club New members welcome Wednesdays • 0407 077 143

Head out onto the ice this weekend

Dress up and dance the night away

Grab some skates and beat the heat this weekend with a fun filled session at Penrith Ice Palace.

Take a step back in time to the 1920s at the Carrington Hotel this Saturday for the Great Art Deco Ball.

Queen of Hearts Domestic violence support 1300 856 737

Den of Thieves - 140 min (MA15+ Strong violence and coarse language) Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:40PM, 9:30PM. Sat, Sun: 1:20PM, 3:50PM, 6:40PM, 9:30PM. Wed: 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:20PM, 9:30PM Molly’s Game - 140 min (M Mature themes, violence and coarse language) Daily: 10:10AM, 1:10PM, 6:20PM, 9:10PM

PENRITH

SESSIONS VALID 1 FEBRUARY TO 7 FEBRUARY

Father Figures - 113 min (M Sexual references and coarse language) Daily except Sat, Sun: 12:10PM. Sat, Sun: 12:20PM WW29582

Session times are subject to change without notice, visit www.hoyts.com.au to check session times or book tickets

Insidious: The Last Key - 103 min (M Supernatural themes, violence and infrequent coarse language) Mon: 7:00PM

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

Nathan

Taylor TV NEWS

MUSLIMS LIKE US FEBRUARY 21 AND 22 SBS Ê Channel Seven will now be the new home of ‘The Simpsons’ after they struck a deal with Fox last week. Fox cancelled its output deal with Channel Ten last October after the network went into administration. The new deal also sees Seven pick up ‘MASH’ and new medical series ‘The Resident’, and there’s even a good chance ‘Modern Family’ could also head over. Ê Ten will however hold on to ‘This Is Us’, announcing a return date of Wednesday, February 14. Season two started airing in the US way back in September last year. Is it any wonder people find other ways to access such shows?

PENRITH’S ONLY

Waterview Restaurant

ON AN ISLAND

LOCATED IN THE UNIQUE VENUE OF THE SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL REGATTA CENTRE

Ê Aussie short film festival ‘Tropfest’ will screen on ABC Comedy on February 17. Ê

Channel Nine will once again be the home of ‘The Big Bang Theory’ after they nabbed back all broadcasting rights from Channel Seven.

Ê 10 Muslim housemates will live Big Brother-style under one roof in a bold SBS documentary titled ‘Muslims Like Us’. Featuring former Panthers star Jamal Idris, the two-part doco sees the group living together for eight days exploring what it means to be a Muslim in modern, multicultural Australia. ‘Muslims Like Us’

will air on SBS on February 21 and 22 at 8.30pm.

Ê SBS will start airing season seven of hit US drama ‘Homeland’ on Friday, February 16. Ê Brand new ABC quiz series ‘Think Tank’ will premiere on Monday, February 5 at 6pm. The pub quiz-style program will be hosted by comedian Paul McDermott. Ê Monday was a big night in the battle of the TV ratings, but Channel Seven was a clear winner with 1.18 million tuning in to ‘My Kitchen Rules’. ‘Married at First Sight’ also did well for Nine.

Book now for

y a D s e n Valenti nesd’ay, 14th Feb This Wed

• Excellent Dining Experience • Fine Wine List • Great Place For Families & Friends • Available For Special Functions

LAKESIDE RESTAURANT

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Opening Times Thursday for Dinner Friday for Dinner Saturday for Brunch, Lunch-Dinner Sunday for Brunch

Sydney International Regatta Centre Gate A, Old Castlereagh Rd, Penrith Lakes www.lakesiderestaurant.com.au P:4729 3222 WW32139

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Social Scene

Above:

We celebrated everything we love about this country at the Aussie Arms in Penrith last Friday

Below:

Penrith Council’s official Australia Day celebrations took place at Jamison Park

OF THE WEEK

EARLY DINING!

123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith

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Playing the music YOU grew up with Download our app or stream live at

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

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31. Tacked on 33. Disavow past opinion 34. Crab claw 35. Anti-flood embankment 36. Designer, ... Saint Laurent 39. Hoed 42. Double-reed instruments 44. Locate 45. Barrage 46. Tie 48. Deep (sleep) 49. Drilled hole 50. Self-images 52. Distributes playing cards 54. Shady trees 55. Conducted (war) 56. More sorrowful 57. Coarse file 60. Actor, ... Rickman 62. Steel-belted tyre 65. Pursued 67. Writer, ... Courtenay 69. Hazy 70. Last Greek letter 72. Hot brew 73. Freshwater fish 75. Peach core 77. Utility 79. Slush fund disbursement 81. Explosive substance (1,1,1) 82. Yogurt sauce 84. Weighed down 85. Staunch 86. Scoot 87. Lives meagrely 88. Lucifer’s abode

DOWN 1. Yelps 2. Windy 3. California’s ... Diego 4. Unshackled 5. Author, ... Hemingway 6. Wild West marshal 7. US gambling city 8. Fizzle out 9. Pond surface growth 10. Elastic ring, rubber ...

12. 1000 mm 14. Tolerate 16. Moth-eaten (jumper) 19. Improper (influence) 22. Slashed 23. Grinds (beef) 25. Hands on hips, arms ...

26. Abseil 29. Manning (ship) 32. Juiceless 35. Personal details holder 37. Turns suddenly 38. Tiny amount 40. Provide (with) 41. Outmoded 42. Egg-like shapes 43. Marten fur 44. Feeds (fire) 47. Companion 51. Wood-finishing tool 52. Been-there-before feeling (4,2) 53. Scented bag 54. Light-bulb developer 58. Beer colour 59. Stick one’s oar in 61. Cease! (nautical) 63. Behaved 64. Second (half) 65. Tradition 66. Manicure (board) 68. Racecourse fencing 71. Foxiness 72. Snowfield lift (1-3) 74. Utterly defeats 76. Hooting birds 78. Noble rank 80. Rubbish!

83. Satisfied sigh

Last week’s solution

15

12

13

16

14

17

20

21

28

22

23

29

18

24

25

26

30

27

31

33

32

34

35

36

39

40

41

44

42

45

38

46

47

49

50

51

52

53

55

58

67

54

56

59

62

60

63

64

68

73

79

65

70

74

80

75

71

76

81

84

61

66

69

72

86

37

43

48

57

19

77

82

78

83

85

87

88

Sudoku Fill in all squares so each row, column and each of the nine 3 x 3 squares contain all digits from one to nine.

Last week’s Sudoku solution

40

Word Search Find all the words listed hidden in the grid of letters. They can be found in straight lines up, down, forwards, backwards or even diagonally.

Theme: CIRCUS

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Custom design, production, printing and digital solutions

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Test your knowledge about reality television in our special trivia quiz!

1. Who won the second season of ‘Australian Idol’ in 2004?

2. Who is the principal owner of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop on ‘Pawn Stars’.

3. Which ‘Popstars Live’ contestant released a single called ‘That Girl’?

4. Who hosts ‘Bar Rescue’, which airs on Foxtel’s A&E Channel?

5. How many hosts has ‘Survivor’ had in its 18 year US run?

6. Who won the first season of ‘Big Brother’ in Australia?

7. Who won ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ in 2002?

ANSWERS 1. Casey Donovan 2. Rick Harrison 3. Miranda Murphy 4. Jon Taffer 5. One 6. Ben Williams Dylan Lewis

Trivia Quiz

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

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life

PENRITH’S MOST RESPECTED LINE-UP OF LIFESTYLE EXPERTS

ARIES

LEO

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

your horoscopes

With the Sun, Mercury and Venus in your eccentricity zone rocking Rams are ready to rumble! Projects that were previously stalled suddenly spring into action, and you’re brimming over with innovative ideas and spontaneous schemes.

Friendships are particularly favoured as you exchange news and views. But resist the urge to be rash on the weekend. If you think before you speak and act, it will save you from two days of drama.

TAURUS

This week the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Uranus all urge you to shake things up on the career front. Some intrepid Taureans will change jobs (or take on a second job) but you could just jazz up your daily work routine. Whatever you do, avoid getting stuck in a boring rut! Expect a few relationship fireworks on the weekend, especially if you are being super stubborn.

GEMINI

Daily posts at www.bohoastro.com twitter @JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2018

AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Hold onto your seat as Uranus and the Aquarian Sun, Mercury and Venus shake up your daily routine. It’s time to learn new techniques, revamp your office, start a business or even change your job.

You possess many versatile Virgo talents but they won’t truly blossom until you nurture and develop them with the help of a wise mentor. When will the teacher appear? When the student is ready!

LIBRA

MAY 22 TO JUNE 21

Wednesday is wonderful for socialising with local friends and networking with international connections. But are you feeling rather restless? Is the green grass of home looking pretty predictable and boring? Blame it on the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter and Uranus stirring up your adventure zone. Which will activate your Gemini travel gene and leave you dreaming of tropical trips, heavenly holidays and exotic escapades.

CANCER

JUNE 22 TO JULY 22

Don’t limit yourself Leo! This week your creativity and originality are firing, as you form a new partnership or pursue a joint project. When it comes to your job, you may feel as if you’re going backwards but putting in longer hours won’t fix the problem. Do your best to work smarter rather than harder. On the weekend, a romantic relationship becomes feisty.

Aim to be less selfish and much more sympathetic to the needs of your partner.

VIRGO

APRIL 21 TO MAY 21

Joanne Madeline Moore

JULY 23 TO AUGUST 23

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Creative partnerships and joint ventures are favoured on Wednesday, when you spark ideas off each other and pool your talents to create something really unique.

When it comes to close relationships, stop talking long enough to let others have their say. You may be pleasantly surprised by some unexpected news! On the weekend, money matters are on your mind but don’t make any rash moves.

Avoid lending cash to unreliable people.

SCORPIO

With three planets stimulating your sensuality zone, some romantic Crabs are in the mood for love and lust. If you’re attached, it’s time to spice up the relationship with a sexy SMS or an erotic email.

Searching for your soul mate? Cupid has his arrows pointed in your direction, and love is likely with someone who is connected with your work or a volunteer organisation.

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

You’re feeling optimistic about the future as Jupiter journeys through Scorpio.

So your motto for the moment is from birthday great Bob Marley: “Love the life you live, live the life you love”. Wednesday is wonderful for fun, friendship and novel expressions of affection. But avoid getting carried away on the weekend; promising too much and then delivering too little.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 21

With the Sun, Mercury and Venus all visiting your communication zone you’ll feel like conversing, studying and/or travelling. If you’ve been waiting to get something off your chest, now’s the time to spill the beans and express yourself.

Then the pace picks up on the weekend, when you may feel rushed and stressed.

Smart Sadges will find some inner peace via meditation, contemplation, yoga or tai chi as you listen to your inner voice.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

your

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 20

This week the focus is on business and/or financial matters. Capricorns are usually incredibly patient and persistent but, when it comes to a frustrating situation, you could find yourself ready to throw in the towel. Saturn and Pluto push you to keep on keeping on. As Thomas Edison said: “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time”.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Wednesday favours stimulating friendships and falling in love very fast! The Sun, Mercury and Venus are all visiting your sign, you’ll feel restless, curious, and eager to explore radical new ideas. You’re also keen to show others how innovative and interesting you can be, as you shake a loved one out of their cosy comfort zone.

As Vanessa Redgravez said: “Ask the right questions if you’re to find the right answers”.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

With plenty of planets in your ‘helping others’ zone, concentrate on the pressing needs of those around you. You’ll also gain good fortune if you’re involved with projects from behind-the-scenes. On the weekend, peace planet Venus shifts into your sign (until March 6). So you’ll be at your quintessential Piscean best as your creative, compassionate and spiritual sides kick into top gear.

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

your

look

Exciting products to give you a refreshed look this year With the Christmas credit card hangover hopefully over, now’s the time to check out some great new products that will give you an exciting look in 2018...

Alyce Madden For the latest trends follow @westfieldpenrith on Instagram

Long lasting full coverage in a weightless oil free formulation?

If this sounds like the foundation of your dreams check out the Nars Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation in store now at Mecca Cosmetica.

We all want the same thing when it comes to foundation and that’s a perfect colour match with as much coverage as we can get away with while still being breathable and natural looking.

Once you have spent the time and effort of applying your make-up in the morning, it’s absolutely vital that your flawless complexion results last all day, this Nars ultimate formula promises up to 16 hours of perfect no touch-up needed wear, proving to be transfer resistant and sweat proof.

For the latest in face masks Lush Cosmetics have come out with an interesting jelly range!

The ultimate in relaxation, what better way to wind down than with a refreshing vegan skin balancing jelly face mask!

Just pinch a piece of The Birth Of Venus face mask and rub into a paste between clean hands, smooth over the comforting mask and chill for 10-15 minutes, let the chamomile blue oil and soothing lavender absolute do their magic and then rinse to feel brand new!

There you have it! Some must-try products that will give you a fresh and exciting look in 2018.

We all know the saying ‘new year, new me’ but with a constant revolving door of the latest beauty products in hair, skin and make-up, this can be a reality.

Keep an eye out for these front runners for beauty innovations to try at some stage in 2018!

Head into Myer to find the highly anticipated Capture Youth range by Dior, with the campaign starring the always stunning supermodel Cara Delevingne.

This age defying collection is hard to miss. The enchanting five skin serums in the range make you feel like you are smoothing on little magic potion in the morning!

Try the Capture Youth Plumping Serum enriched with antioxidants and skin loving hyaluronic acid, to hydrate and firm.

My absolute favourite for quick results is the Capture Youth Glow Booster AgeDelay Illuminating Serum with potent concentrated vitamin C derived from murunga plum and alpha hydroxy acid, to smooth and brighten skin complexion.

PCC 682. STAFFY FEMALE 8 YEARS AVAILABLE NOW $181.50 KENNEL 12

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Meeka was surrendered by her owners when they moved house and they were no longer able to keep her.

Meeka is a sweet girl that sits when asks and loves treats; she will take them nicely and has so much to offer a new family. All Meeka wants is the home she deserves so please come and meet her any time during open hours.

Choppa is a gorgeous 9 year old Staffy mix that has ended up at the shelter after being surrendered by his owners.

His previous owners left notes to say that Choppa is good with other dogs and children, he slept outside and was never house trained. Choppa is a very sweet and happy dog that is looking for a home that will give him the love he deserves from a family. He is ready to be Adopted today with the special Adoption Fee of $56.50 so please come and meet him . . .

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How unique looking is this girl! She is only 12 months of age and is looking for her very own family. Do you enjoy an evening stroll around the block or by the river and need a companion to take with you? Do you have a spare seat on the lounge when watching telly and do you have a warm bed and nice food at your place? If you answered yes to these questions you are a great match so please pop in!

This cutie came into the Shelter with his friend and neither were reclaimed by their owner. While his friend has gone on to find her forever home this fella is still waiting. He is a typical Jack Russell with a spring in his step and a huge love for treats! At just 1 year old he has his whole life to offer a new family so please consider giving him a home.

PCC 41 STAFFY CROSS MALE 1 YEAR AVAILABLE NOW $385 KENNEL 14 Look at that smile  My impound time has now finished and I’m looking for my Forever Home. I would love a home where we can go for a daily walk / jog to keep an active lifestyle and of course toys to play with during the day while you are at work. Come and meet me any time during Open Hours, I’m ready to be Adopted now . . .

PCC 72 SHEPHERD CROSS MALE 12 MONTHS $385 AVAILABLE 6.2.18 KENNEL 71 This guy is only new to the shelter having only arrived this week. So far we can see that he is a sweet and happy boy that has a lot of love to give. We are hopeful that his family will come for him but if they don’t he is available for Adoption from the 6th of Feb. Please come and visit any time to see if he is the companion for you.

We always recommend bringing your own dogs to the shelter to meet any of the shelter dogs.

The shelter is in need of toys, blankets (not doonas or pillows though), treats and coats for large dogs. Please contact the shelter if you can help.

Our contact details are:

twitter.com/HawkesburyPdVol fohcas.com

44

Shelters contact details are:

Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave NSW 2756 ph: 02 4560 4644 companionanimal@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au WW32173

money

Accessing your super early: How, why and why not Superannuation may be our money, but there’s strict rules about when and why we can access it

Alex McKenzie Principal Financial Planner Future Financial Services futurefinancialservices.com.au

From social media platforms to conversations in the pub, people often want to know if they are able to access their super to pay for something they can’t afford.

There are circumstances where you can access funds early, but they are very limited and very strictly enforced.

People often ask why they can’t use it? It is their money after all. The reason the government doesn’t allow it is that the money is mandated savings to fund retirement. The funds are taxed at concessional rates as compensation for not being able to use it until we retire.

Prior to superannuation, very few people adequately saved for when they were no longer receiving an income. If allowed to access super funds, too many people would do so and then not have enough savings to fund retirement years.

This not only leads to a lower standard of living for these people but it is also a financial drain for the government.

There are some situations where superannuation can be accessed early. Death, terminal illness and total and permanent disability are all conditions of release that most people are familiar with.

The two circumstances that cause the most issue are severe financial hardship and compassionate grounds.

Two areas that cause confusion and, at times, a lot of misinformation is provided, are in relation to accessing funds for a medical procedure and to prevent foreclosure on a mortgage.

It is possible to access funds for those reasons, but it is very, very strict. For the medical procedure, the condition has to be life-threatening and/or be causing acute and chronic pain. Furthermore, the procedure must not be readily available through the public system.

The ATO clearly defines what they believe to be chronic and severe pain and what they determine is life-threatening.

Life-threatening is defined as the likelihood that the condition will degenerate and lead to the client’s death within 12 months. It also states that this is for existing medical conditions not potential conditions.

The one I hear all the time is where people wish to use their superannuation for gastric band surgery. The argument being that, unless the person can lose weight, they are in a life-threatening situation. The ATO has specifically stated that this is NOT life-threatening by their definition and is not allowed.

The other condition of release that leads to confusion is the payment for mortgage assistance. Again, it is possible to do this, but under very limited circumstances.

The payment has to be for severe financial hardship specifically to prevent foreclosure and must be on the primary residence.

It cannot relate to a personal loan or an investment property loan and is limited to a maximum amount of $10,000 in any 12-month period.

Early access to your superannuation really is a last resort, and should be treated as such. Although possible to access, it is very difficult, and will only be allowable in very limited circumstances and under extremely strict conditions.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

your

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45

Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

your

Why desexing your pet has huge health benefits

pets

Desexing your furry friend is not just about preventing pregnancy...

Nicole McMillan Practice owner of Coreen Avenue Veterinary Clinic and the Western Sydney Cat Hospital

Most people associate desexing with prevention of pregnancy. While this is important, there are many more benefits that far outweigh any risks.

Desexing is recommended for all pet animals even if kept alone.

Australia has relatively high desexing rates but we still have issues with unwanted litters, overpopulation and unwanted animals being surrendered to shelters and pounds.

Dogs and cats will reach sexual maturity from about six months of age, ferrets from four to eight months and rabbits from four to 10 months.

Females can have multiple litters in a year especially cats and rabbits who breed rapidly. Generally, the recommended age for desexing is just before or at sexual maturity.

The desexing procedure for female animals is an ovariohysterectomy, surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus.

This prevents pregnancy and the animal cycling (also termed being in heat or being in season).

The desexing procedure for males is castration where the testes are surgically removed. This prevents testosterone and sperm production.

When a female cycles a large amount of oestrogen is produced and causes a range of physical and behavioural signs. In dogs the vulva becomes swollen and a clear to bloody discharge is produced for three weeks. Female cats will show no physical signs but their behaviour changes dramatically. They will become overtly affectionate and will vocalise constantly.

They will continue to cycle until they become pregnant. This behaviour can be prolonged and very frustrating.

Prolonged oestrogen exposure can cause issues later in life. Dogs are prone to getting mammary cancers, uterine cancers and pyometron. Pyometron is a life threatening uterine infection.

Cats can suffer from mammary cancers.

Desexing prevents all uterine diseases and dramatically reduces the incidence of mammary cancers.

Once males reach puberty they constantly produce testosterone, affecting their body and behaviour. The most significant clinical effect of prolonged testosterone exposure in males is prostate disease. This is seen mostly in dogs. Over time the prostate enlarges, causing painful issues with urination and defecation.

It is more prone to infection and without castration the infections can be difficult to resolve. In entire males, testicular cancer is another serious issue. It is most commonly seen in dogs but can be seen in other species.

Desexing also reduces a range of unwanted behaviours. For male dogs and cats, it dramatically reduces mounting behaviour, aggression and urine marking.

It also reduces roaming, which in turn reduces the incidence of trauma and infection from fighting and being hit by cars.

Cats will have reduced risk of FIV (feline AIDS) that is contracted by fighting. It reduces the odour of urine.

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ardner’s Ground Wines comprises 14.5 hectares of vineyard located within a community title — organic farm at Canowindra in Central NSW. Their 2013 Gardners Ground Shiraz ($20) is the latest wine released from the vineyard.

Being part of a 140-hectare community title farm has allowed owners Jenny and Herb Gardner to work with like-minded farmers.

“We chose to buy into an established organic vineyard as we were focused on sustainability and, with the vineyard having transitioned to organic practices in 1996, it was a logical starting point,” owner and vigneron, Jenny Gardner explained.

The community title is a unique model of rural development with the objective of facilitating the creation of viable intensive organic agricultural developments by promoting co-operation and self-reliance among the proprietors of Lots in the Neighbourhood Plan.

“Herb and I have learnt a lot over the past 16 years; it’s been a steep learning curve. There is a wealth of knowledge about organic farming in Canowindra, and the custodians of Rivers Road Organic Farms all work together within the mesoclimate to ensure we are improving the health of the soil and vines and subsequently making better wine,” Jenny said.

The Neighbourhood Association shares facilities such as water distribution, buffer zones and native re-vegetation. Farming practices includes the growing of grapes, olives, vegetable and livestock.

“There is a lovely synergy across the property. The sharing of knowledge, along with the existing facilities, enriches all those involved,” Jenny said.

JOHN ROZENTALS

Could kids in swimming lessons be smarter at school?

Learning to swim may have added benefits in the classroom, new research has revealed...

Julie Fletcher Nepean Swim and Fitness julie@nepeanswim.com.au nepeanaquaticcentre.com.au and on Facebook

After a long hot summer break, the holiday is now over and our children have this week returned to school.

However if your children are learning to swim, they might already be ahead of the game, with a study out of Griffith University suggesting swimming children are not only safer, but smarter.

The research conducted over four years has concluded that children who swim demonstrate more advanced cognitive and physical abilities than other children, and indicates that swimming children have many advantages when starting school.

Lead researcher Professor Robyn Jorgensen said: “While we expected the children to show better physical development and perhaps be more confident through swimming, the results in literacy and numeracy really shocked us.

“The children were anywhere from six to 15 months ahead of the normal population when it came to cognitive skills, problem solving in mathematics, counting, language and following instructions.”

Professor Jorgensen said that as well as

achieving physical milestones faster, the swimming children scored significantly better in visual-motor skills such as cutting paper, colouring in and drawing lines and shapes.

She added: “On average, these children were 11 months ahead of the normal population in Oral Expression, six months ahead in Mathematics Reasoning and two months ahead in Brief Reading.

Most amazing was the difference in Story Recall (17 months ahead) and Understanding Directions (20 months ahead).”

While on the subject of school, many children (and parents) will this month experience their first school swimming carnival.

I remember my school carnival days very fondly, but while they are great fun, remember the water and sun safety basics.

Sunscreen is not optional and needs to be reapplied several times throughout the day.

A broad rimmed hat, polo shirt and zinc in their house colour is ideal for further sun protection.

Food, lots of water, a card game or book for the sometimes long waits between age groups and two towels (one to use and one to sit on) are always handy, as is a waterproof bag to bring everything home.

Always follow the instructions of the race official, and only enter the water when instructed to do so.

And remember, hair sprayed in house colour/s may look great, but you probably won’t be allowed in the pool.

We are currently giving away free swimming caps to our swim students in their house colours for them to wear to their school swimming carnivals this year instead!

Encourage your child to take the plunge!

A high student participation rate makes for a fun and exciting swimming carnival day for all!

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

your swim safety

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47

Friday, February 2, 2018 ÂŤ the western weekender

your

religion

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget one of the most important lessons of all Kids are back at school, but are we forgetting to teach them something crucial?

Rev John Lavender www.gpa.church and on Facebook

Starting school can be traumatic. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard on parents as their precious children head into the big wide world. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard on kids heading off to new routines. And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also hard on teachers on whom much is expected.

Parents want the best for their children.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not that parents expect their children to be astrophysicists or brain surgeons, but they do want the best for them; to be able to relate well with others; to understand lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s big issues; to do well at a sport or at least have a wide range of interests (rather than play computer games all day!)

Sometimes though, the spiritual side is pushed to the side. Whether parents had a bad experience or donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s relevant, lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spiritual aspect doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a look in.

Consider Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s account of Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; growth in the Bible; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and menâ&#x20AC;?.

See this healthy balance of four key areas of life?

Jesus grew in knowledge and wisdom, understanding our world.

He grew in stature, maturing physically and mentally. Jesus enjoyed a good reputation, good favour with people.

And see the important fourth area? The spiritual; growing in favour with God. Just as a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth is limited by not giving proper attention to their physical development, how much more are children impacted by not giving proper

attention to the growth of their relationship. Help your children to get to know Jesus. Encourage them to read the Bible; even better, read it with them!

Encouraging them to pray and be part of a church with a good kids program.

Encourage them at School Scripture.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see healthy growth and your children will thank you for it!

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health

The exercises that will help you avoid a nasty fall

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

your

Falls prevention is now an important part of your health and exercise routine...

Alicia Whiticker Exercise Physiologist OnePoint Health 4732 5188 onepointhealth.com.au

Each year in NSW, falls and associated injuries lead to 27,000 hospitalisations and 400 deaths.

Falls injuries have the highest costing to the NSW health system over any other incident, including road trauma.

One in three people over the age of 65 and one in two people over the age of 80 are at risk of a fall that will lead to a serious injury. For people over the age of 65 you are three times more likely to end up in hospital after a fall.

However, falls do not just occur in the elderly or people aged over 65. Falls are common in younger adults and can be as a result of numerous chronic conditions such as vertigo, stroke, lower limb neuropathy and muscle weakness.

Risk factors that can contribute to falls include; strength, balance, coordination, walking speed, gait imbalances, poor vision, medication and reduced sensation of lower limbs.

A study that was recently completed in Australia concluded that three hours of high challenging balance exercise per week slashed your risk of falling by 40 per cent or more.

your education

Rob Ollis

Master Coaching Penrith 4722 3072

Australia may be rocking the world sporting stage, but there’s concerns about our performance in the classroom. What can we learn from other countries about our education standards?

I have been very fortunate in my life in that I have been given opportunities to work with mathematics students in China, Korea and Vietnam.

This experience shows that learning is a universal process and the fact that the Vietnamese students enjoyed the sessions and were able to take so much from each lesson was heartening.

Incidentally, in China and Vietnam, school runs for six days per week, seven hours per day.

Not much time for sport and other recreational activities.

Australia’s shorter school week and the leisure time available to students, coupled with our first class facilities may be the reason that Australia looms so large on the world sporting stage so often.

It could be that a balance between the two cultures regarding schooling would

improve the learning outcomes in both countries.

Australian school standards based on OECD statistics; according to PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) results are in decline.

There is far too much emphasis on ‘accountability’ whereby teachers are drowning in paperwork rather than being able to engage in their passion, which is to teach.

Vietnam, a third world country, with very meagre resources, is ranked 10th out of 72 countries in mathematics while Australia is ranked 27th.

Prior to the introduction of the restrictive ‘outcomes based learning system’ Australia had been ranked fourth in mathematics.

There has been a similar decline in other subjects across the board.

Just recently on the ABC program, ‘The Drum’, Adam Spencer (a mathematician and passionate educator), debated the decline in Australian educational standards and canvassed possible solutions.

The reasons behind the success of Finland’s education system, ranked sixth in the PISA results, were explored, they are interesting and could be easily applied in Australia, we will look at these next week.

In the meantime, it remains to be seen if Australia can reverse its educational decline before it becomes too late.

Falls prevention is more than just balance training; exercise should cover: Strengthen your lower limbs Stronger lower limb muscles especially the calf muscles can significantly reduce your risk of falls.

Gait imbalances This will help to improve walking stride, stride length and help minimise your risk of tripping over your own feet and also incorporate correct use of walking aids.

Balance and coordination High challenging balance exercises are

proven to help reduce the risk of falls.

Upper limb strength This will help with your falls recovery strategies and give you the ability to pick yourself up after a fall.

Walking speed A minimum walking speed of 3km per hour is recommended to stay safely active within the community.

Falls prevention classes are run at OnePointHealth every Tuesday and Thursday at 10am. They are targeted at people of all ages and abilities.

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Talking Automotive

By Debbie Clark | Nepean Motor Group

A proper test drive is a must before purchasing a new car Spec Sheets are all well and good,

use, call a friend while you’re on the handsfree and test out the clarity.

Test how easy it is to use the navigation system, the audio streaming, the air conditioning controls and the much overlooked, but very important, cup holders!

Bring along your usual travel mug, or super-size slushie cup and make sure it fits, even try fitting two coffee cups next to each other, this is where I have previously run into problems in some cars!

Really poke around the interior, see if there are some sneaky but clever little compartments for your wallet, your phone, or even a rubbish bin or a hidden umbrella!

Also remember to look into the future, if you’re buying a car to last you for the next five or even 10 years, think ahead…

Will there be room for perhaps a baby seat (or three) and strollers?

A 24-hour test drive is the best option to truly test out a car, most dealerships should offer this, you may just need to book it in advance.

You can then take the car on your usual routine and see if it is the right car to fit your life.

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however sometimes a car that looks great on paper may not be a great match for your routine. That nice looking car you’ve seen on TV or that car your friend recommended to you, may harbour hidden quirks that will drive you crazy within days. This is why test drives are so important and I cannot recommend them highly enough, especially a proper test drive, one that lasts longer than five minutes!

When you’re going on a test drive, try and take the correct variant, if you’re only after a base model, don’t take the top spec variant for a spin, as it won’t be a true test of the car you are going to buy, and vice versa.

Test out everything, don’t just think of how fast it goes or how it handles, there are so many other features that you need to try out to make sure you don’t get frustrated at your new car a few weeks in.

Test out the parking sensors, the reverse camera, the stereo and connectivity.

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

AUTO EXPERTS

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onesty and reliability are two traits hard to find in a business these days but you can expect all that and more from the team at Mobile One Auto Repairs.

Located at Forrester Road in St Marys, Mobile One Auto Repairs has been in business for an amazing 20 years, and has the reputation to go along with it.

“We’ve been here for a long time and have a very loyal customer base,” co-owner Debbie Bartolo said.

Mobile One Auto Repairs offers a range of high quality services including general mechanical repairs such as brakes, lubes, exhausts and tuneups, plus registration checks and log book servicing without losing your new car warranty.

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They offer a limited pick up and drop off service, are flexible with appointments and very competitive with their prices.

But perhaps the best aspect of Mobile One Auto Repairs is their incredible customer service ethic.

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“If a part is no longer working we’ll show the customer what is wrong with it and they are even welcome to take the part home,” Debbie said.

“We try and educate customers because there’s nothing worse than not knowing what you’ve paid for.”

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Performance that shocked cricket world p.60

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

Sport

HOWZAT!

Kara Starling and Elissa De Bie are looking forward to the Super Bowl on Monday. Photo: Melinda Jane

It’ll be a Super Monday NATHAN TAYLOR

T

he Super Bowl is the biggest event on the American sporting calendar, and Penrith will also be getting into all the mayhem with a number of local venues hosting parties this Monday morning.

The New England Patriots will be searching for back to back titles when they take on Philadelphia at Super Bowl LII in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Over the last few years the NFL has absolutely exploded in Australia and a number of venues around Penrith will be cashing in on that hype on Monday.

Penrith is also getting into the Super Bowl spirit German-style.

From 10am, The Bavarian will host what they say is an “unmissable beerfilled Super Bowl bash”, which includes $1 wings, $12 All-American hot dogs and American IPA on tap.

They will also have fun half-time games plus your chance to win a sweet swag of NFL merchandise. To book, visit www.thebavarian.com.au/booking.

TC’s Sports Bar inside Penrith Panthers will screen all the action live from 9am, with wings, ribs, waffles, hot dogs and beers on offer all day long.

O’Donoghues Irish Pub in Emu Plains will have buckets of beer, buckets of

Hooters Penrith will be kicking off their Super Bowl celebrations at 9am, with plenty of delicious American food as well as a great range of beers to wash them down. To book, call 4733 5428.

Across town, the Red Cow Hotel will be hosting their very own Super Bowl party from 10am.

Catch all the action live on the big screen while guzzling down $5 bottles of Budweiser and enjoying a tasty allAmerican menu including Big Mick’s Nachos, Loaded Bacon and Ranch Fries, Sweet Sriracha Buffalo Wings and the epic ‘Tom Brady’ burger – which has to be seen to be believed.

Nearby, the Bavarian at Westfield

wings and all the coverage live and loud on the big screen.

O’Donoghues will even have jersey giveaways and loads of American food specials to get you going. To book, call 4735 5509.

Last but not least, Downtown Brooklyn in High Street has you covered for another year with all your American favourites including Buffalo wings, nachos, hot dogs, burgers, shakes as well as Coors and Budweiser buckets. To book a table, call 4732 1505.

Instead of coming up with an excuse to get out of work, why not make a day of it and invite the whole office along to celebrate this year’s Super Bowl!

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

The LPF Centre for Autism facilitates a person-centered apparoach.

The Foundation is proud to advocate for people living with Autism Spectrum Disorders and provides support and services within for wider community.

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www.lpfcentreforautism.com

Getting kids active for less Financial assistance available to all parents to encourage involvement in sport NATHAN TAYLOR

ore than one million school children across NSW are now eligible for the State Government’s new annual $100 Active Kids voucher.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian along with Penrith MP and Sports Minister Stuart Ayres visited Eileen Cammack Reserve in South Penrith on Wednesday morning, to launch the exciting new initiative.

Ms Berejiklian said all parents with school-aged children will have help to cover the cost of sports and active recreation fees.

“This is a fantastic boost for parents because we know the cost of kids’ sport and activities can really add up. Active Kids is one of the ways the NSW Government is easing cost of living pressures on families,” she said.

“We have allocated $207 million over the next four years to help parents with the costs of getting their kids into sport.”

Active Kids will contribute $100 for every child towards the cost of sports registration, membership expenses and fees for physical activities such as swim-

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Gladys Berejiklian with Stuart Ayres and local kids on Wednesday. Photo: Melinda Jane ming, dance lessons and athletics.

However, not all sports are part of the program, with strict guidelines set in place for eligibility.

“To be able to access this program, you must participate in a structured program for sport that lasts at least eight weeks

St Clair Junior Rugby League Club

ST MARYS CONVENT FOOTBALL CLUB

PLAYERS REQUIRED Under 6s up to A Grade (Can start playing when they turn 4 years old) LOOKING TO FIELD GIRLS SIDES FROM UNDER 6s UPWARDS Please note that U/6s to U/12s ALL GIRLS sides will be playing on Sundays. U/14, U/16 and U18 Girls to still play on Saturday

2018 Registration Information Days Saturday Players ONLY pick up your gear At Peppertree Reserve (Cnr Peppertree & Swallow Drive Erskine Park) Saturday 17th, Sunday 18th Feb and Sunday 25th Feb between 10.00am to 3.00pm

ALL REGISTRATIONS AND PAYMENT ARE NOW ON LINE from the 1st Feb 2018. go to playnrl.com/register and press Play.

You are able to utilise your $100 Active Kids Voucher.

Training starts the week of 5th Feb. All players welcome.

See web page for times and details.

For Further Enquiries please contact:

A Grade and C Grade training on Tuesday and Thursday 6.30pm at Solander Drive St Clair.

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2018 Registrations ONLINE REGISTRATIONS NOW AVAILABLE COME DOWN AND REGISTER IN PERSON Where: at Myrtle Rd Fields, Claremont Meadows When: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 6pm to 7pm each day Boys & Girls wanted from U/5 to All Age All new players require copy of Proof of Age

For information contact either Sharon Wilson 0406 071 590 email stmarysconvent@iprimus.com.au Use this link for online registration instructions: http://www.nepeansoccer.com.au/stmarysconvent/

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Registrar: Michael Zammit : Mob 0412 531 935 (after 3.30pm on weekdays) Email – mzammo@outlook.com.au Secretary: Bill Borg : Mob 0425 226 683 Email - bill@stclairjrlc.org.au more details on the web page. stclaircomets.com.au All NEW players will need to show a copy of a Birth Certificate or Passport.

FREE SHORTS, SOCKS & SHIRT WHEN REGISTRATION FEES PAID

A Grade Coach – Paul Grieve – mob 0431 064 193

and the sporting organisation must be registered as an Active Kids provider,” Mr Ayres said.

“Kids must participate in a sport that’s moderate physical activity, so sports like billiards or static shooting is not included in the scheme.”

Local parents can now register online with Service NSW to receive their $100 voucher to provide to their approved sport or physical activity club or organisation.

“Active kids are happy and healthy kids and this is going to make a difference to many families. This program means that every child in the state has the opportunity to be fit and active in their community,” Mr Ayres said.

“From today parents can visit the Active Kids website to see a list of approved providers.

“More organisations will be added in the weeks ahead.”

Speaking with the Weekender, Scouts NSW Chief Commissioner Neville Tomkins praised the Active Kids program.

“This is a wonderful initiative for the many families of scouting,” he said.

“This will help to maintain and grow scouting memberships and will get our young people out into the community.

“We’ve already redeemed a number of the vouchers manually and the response has been very positive.”

Parents have until December 31 to claim and use their voucher. For more information, visit sport.nsw.gov.au/activekids.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

SPORT

Like us on Facebook St Marys Convent FC Be part of a Western Sydney & family based soccer club with over 50 years of proud playing history in the local area.

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

CRICKET

The local cricketer who stunned an entire nation NATHAN TAYLOR

hile the cricketing world was going nuts for young Aussie legspinner Lloyd Pope last week, a teenage pace-bowler from Cranebrook was putting on a scintillating show of her own.

Playing in a One Day Match for Penrith against Manly-Warringah in the Brewer Shield (U17 division) competition, 13-yearold Maddison Sullivan had herself a performance that will be remembered for a very long time.

In fact Maddison – and everyone present at Weldon Oval on January 21 – will never forget the feats of that hot summer’s day.

The Year 9 Xavier College student, who has only been playing cricket for three years, recorded an unbelievable 9/13 with the ball.

Maddison’s incredible performance was acknowledged as the best bowling figure in the country that weekend – and boy it’ll take something ‘out of this world’ to go past it anytime soon.

What made Maddison’s efforts that bit more absurd (in case it wasn’t already) was the fact she did it in 5.5 overs, and against some players three to four years

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her senior. Speaking with the Weekender, Maddison said she could hardly contain herself as each wicket continued to fall and fall and fall.

“The game started just like any other and then I just started taking all these wickets,” she recalled.

“It was just one wicket after the other and I couldn’t believe what I was doing. I wanted to get the whole team out.”

Funnily enough Maddison almost did single handedly dismiss the whole ManlyWarringah line-up one by one.

“I was bowling when the run-out occurred but that wicket got credited to the fielder,” Maddison said.

“As the wickets continued to fall my teammates said ‘you are going to get a ‘nine-fa’ today’ but I said ‘you’re dreaming, it’s not going to happen’… but then it did.”

Making the win extra special was the fact it was Penrith’s first victory of the season following four straight defeats.

Maddison said it was an all-round great team performance with batter Elsa Hunter recording a team-high 70 runs.

While she knows taking nine scalps in a single innings is rare, Maddison is hoping to continue her dominance with the ball as she progresses through the grades.

Cranebrook local Maddison Sullivan took 9/13 last week. Photo: Melinda Jane

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St Marys Soccer Club

2018 Registrations Days

At Potter Field cnr Shepherd St & Bennett Rd St Marys

January 20th

10am – 2pm 10am – 2pm 4pm – 7pm 4pm – 7pm

Sat 3rd Sun 4th Thu 8th Sat 10th Sun 11th

10am – 2pm 10am – 2pm 6pm – 8pm 4pm – 7pm 10am – 2pm

Enquiries: John Sipsak 0401 942 865 - Registrar Afif Ali 0488 167 529 - President

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x x

x x

Players turning 5 in 2018 to All Age, including over 35s & 45s Girls only teams start at under 10s.

All new players need proof of age (licence, passport or birth certificate).

All registrations must be done online at MyFootballClub.com.au or our website and follow the link. $100 Active Kids Rebate for students available – CHECK OUR WEBSITE FIRST BEFORE REGISTERING ONLINE FOR DETAILS* Please bring invoice to canteen when registering.

Discounts apply to the completed & fully paid registrations on the 9 official registration days.

All junior players (under 5 – under 16) receive a soccer ball.

www.stmaryssoccer.com.au

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Sat Sun 21st Sat 27th Sun 28th

February

x x x

*Special procedures apply if registering before Jan 31st check our website first.

New season, new vibe Giants put horror debut year behind them and focus on brighter times ahead Award, and was listed in the All-Australian squad – a huge achievement for someone who was playing with the Western Sydney Wanderers just three years earlier.

“I used to play soccer for 20 years, I started playing U9’s,” Tomkins said.

“I played soccer for so long that I was just going through the motions. I needed to take up something new to liven things up.

“My friend recommended I try Aussie Rules and I fell in love with it straight away.”

Tomkins’ call to switch to a red Sherrin proved the right one as she enters her second season as a GWS Giant this weekend.

Following a 50-point thrashing of Brisbane in a practice match late last month, Tomkins said her side is confident heading into tomorrow’s opening round clash against the Melbourne Demons.

“We are pretty pumped, the vibe is heaps better than last year’s vibe,” she said.

“We trained so hard in the pre-season to try and accomplish a better formation, and to beat last year’s finalists by 50 was pretty awesome.

“We can’t wait to get out there and give it a big crack this year.”

NATHAN TAYLOR

n the eve of the second AFLW season, Penrith local and GWS Giants star Renee Tomkins has opened up on a range of topics – from winning just one game in 2017 to trading away a career in the W-League for one in the AFL. There’s perhaps no one more honest or quintessentially Aussie than 31-year-old “Tonka Truck” Tomkins.

Picked at number 96 in the inaugural AFL Women’s Draft, Tomkins was a standout in what was a pretty rough year for her Greater Western Sydney squad.

With so much hype surrounding the inaugural AFLW season, the Giants collected just one win in season 2017 and certainly weren’t up to the standard of their interstate rivals.

“Last year, I don’t think anyone knew what they were in for and we were all still getting to know each other,” Tomkins told the Weekender.

“That first year was a big learning curve for us. To win one game was a big achievement in itself because we were the underdogs of the competition.

O

Penrith’s Renee Tomkins is looking forward to a big year with the Giants “We weren’t too disappointed with our overall record but you never want to lose that many games in a row.”

Despite her team’s constant beatings,

Tomkins was strong week in, week out.

At the conclusion of the AFLW season, she was nominated by her teammates for the AFL Players’ Most Valuable Player

St Clair United Soccer Club

EXHIBIT WITH US

www.stclairsoccer.com.au

SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL REGATTA CENTRE • PENRITH • NSW

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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The Aon Sydney International Rowing Regatta is Australia’s premier rowing event attracting foot traffic totalling 30,000 over the week.

PLAYERS WANTED

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Rowing Australia is offering exhibition spaces for your business to showcase its brand and sell products at our event.

We accommodate ALL AGE GROUPS from Under 5 to All Age Men and Women Teams including Premier League

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New members are Welcomed All registrations to be done online at

www.myfootballclub.com.au Visit our website www.stclairsoccer.com.au for more information Don’t leave it too late as teams do fill up reasonably quickly WW32076

Any inquiries to our Registrar Contact Details are on our website

Members of the Penrith Valley Chamber of Commerce.

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Friday, February 2, 2018 « the western weekender

CANOE SLALOM

Dominating the water Jessica Fox and Rosalyn Lawrence show their power in New Zealand NATHAN TAYLOR

enrith locals Jessica Fox and Rosalyn Lawrence have returned home with a swag of medals following strong performances at the 2018 Canoe Slalom Oceania Championships in New Zealand last weekend.

Fox claimed gold in the women’s C1 event while Lawrence picked up silver and bronze in the women’s K1 and C1 respectively.

Held at Vector Wero Whitewater Park in Auckland, the Canoe Slalom Oceania Championships was the first major hitout of the 2018 international canoe slalom season.

Two-time Olympic medallist Jessica Fox was crowned champion of C1, clocking in a time of 109.42 seconds in the final – 2.71 seconds ahead of Kiwi Luuka Jones.

Teammate Rosalyn Lawrence joined her fellow countrywoman on the podium after finishing in third.

The win was a huge relief for the Leonay product, who missed a gate in Sunday’s K1 final and ended up eighth despite clocking the fastest time in the final.

P

Jessica Fox and Rosalyn Lawrence in action last weekend. Photos: Jamie Troughton/Dscribe Media “I was a bit disappointed with the K1 but the speed was there, it was just some technical errors that cost me dearly,” Fox said after the race.

“It happens, I put it behind me and came back well today and put down some good paddling in the C1.

“All in all I’m pretty happy with this weekend. It was our first selection trial

and we’ll have two more races in the K1 and C1 at the Australian Open in mid-Feb.” Meanwhile, Lawrence kicked off her medal haul on day two of action after finishing the K1 final with a clean run and only .082 seconds behind Katerina Kudyova to claim silver.

Lawrence, who went into the final ranked seventh after a couple of gate

touches in the semi, was thrilled to wrap up the day with a medal.

“I had a couple of touches in my semi run but my final was clean and I was happy with it,” she said.

Selections for the 2018 Australian Canoe Slalom National team will continue at the Australian Open, which will be held in Penrith from February 16 to 18.

Around the grounds CRICKET: Penrith have put in a monster effort to defeat FairfieldLiverpool in Round 11 of the NSW Premier Cricket competition. Playing in a two-day match at Rosedale Oval, Fairfield-Liverpool posted 352 on Day 1 before being dismissed after 96 overs. Best with the ball for Penrith was Michael Castle who took 4/58.

When Penrith hit the crease last Saturday, they managed to reach the home side’s target in 79 overs. Ryan Gibson (120) and Cameron Weir (142) both scored centuries in the huge victory. Penrith will look for back to back wins when they face Blacktown at Howell Oval this weekend.

REGISTRATION DAYS REGISTRATION DAY 1:

Saturday February 3

10AM: 36 guests REGISTRATION DAY 2:

Saturday February 10

10AM: 4 guests REGISTRATION DAY 3:

Saturday February 17

10AM: 5 guests REGISTRATION DAY 4:

CRICKET: The Sydney Thunder are through to the Semi Finals of the Women’s Big Bash League after defeating the Brisbane Heat last Sunday by two runs. The Thunder will take on the Perth Scorchers with the winner qualifying for this Sunday’s Final against either the Sydney Sixers or Adelaide Strikers.

Sunday February 18

10AM: 4 guests

CLUB PACEWAY, PENRITH PLAYERS, MANAGERS AND COACHES MUST REGISTER ONLINE AT www.myfootballclub.com.au and then attend on registration day with your printed confirmation slip to finalise registration

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THE LIONS ROAR www.penrithfc.net

WW32068

If you have any queries please email penrithfc@bigpond.com

BASEBALL: The Penrith Panthers first grade side have enjoyed mixed results against Baulkham Hills in Round 15 of the NSW State Baseball League competition. In the midweek game last Wednesday night, Penrith defeated Baulkham Hills 6-5 while they went down last Sunday afternoon 6-2. Penrith will take on Manly in Round 16.

NETBALL: The Penrith District Netball Association will be holding

their annual Junior Representative Carnival for 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 Years State and Development squads on Sunday, March 25 from 8.30am. To enter a team, visit the Penrith Netball website before Friday, March 2. For more information, call Penrith Junior Rep Convener Margaret Thornton on 0439 291 010.

BASKETBALL: Penrith basketballers Tatiana Beaumont, Blair Williams and RJ Estacio have been selected to represent NSW Metro at the 2018 Basketball Australia U18 Championships. Beaumont will start for NSW Metro Women while Williams and Estacio are both reserves for the Metro Men. The 2018 Australian U18 Championships will be hosted by Basketball Geelong from April 21 to April 28.

RUGBYLEAGUE: Penrith Panthers Tarsha Gale Cup coach Robbie Taylor will return to lead the side’s premiership defence when the 2018 season gets underway on February 10. Penrith’s side for the 2018 season includes: Akela Pitcaithly, Cheryl Varga, Christian Pio, Cydney-Lee Cherrington, Dena Isaako, Emma Parker, Faliki Doniva, Isabel Dyer, Janice Salerao, Jaysharna Houia, Jodi Leota-Hughes, Justyce Cleverly, Lavinia Taiseni, Leonie TuivaitiHiggs, Litiana Tuifua, Mal Lavemai, Nikita Katoa, Reshaun Vaughan, Shikaina Edwards, Suresa-Moana Enese and Teagan Toa Toa.

the western weekender » Friday, February 2, 2018

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Sport

the western weekender // www.westernweekender.com.au

Friday, February 2, 2018

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